Manila, October 8 (Engineering Daily) -- The full feasibility study for the multi-billion bridge project to connect the Island Garden City of Samal to mainland Davao will be ready in 2019.
The spokesperson of the Department of Public Works and Highway in Region 11 Dear Ortiz said the bridge project cost PHP9 billion and the construction lasts from 2020 to 2023. It is designed to be 4.4 km length including road approaches.
A pre-feasibility study was undertaken by the Japanese consulting firm Katahira and Engineers International (KEI). Its report was submitted to Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) in February 2016.
“Nothing is final until the full feasibility study is complete,” Ortiz said in an interview.
He said the feasibility study will include the ideal carrying capacity of the bridge, its impact to the residents, the socioeconomic viability, employment, trade, and commercial activities, tourism and agriculture.
Currently the practicable location for the bridge's Davao point is in Santa Ana Wharf, while the Samal portion has not yet been identified. The Samal bridge has been most awaited by both Davao and Samal residents, who take the ferry and motorboats to cross each side.
The Samal Bridge is part of the Build Build Build program of the government and will complement the Davao City Coastal Road Network.
