CALBAYOG CITY — The construction of the bridge that will connect two barangays in Calbayog City, Samar, is set to commence this year, with funding approved under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Region 8 Director Edgar B. Tabacon reported to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan that a total of P150 million was allocated this year for the four-lane bridge component of the ongoing Calbayog City Coastal Road Project, linking Barangay San Policarpo to Barangay Rawis.
The bridge, spanning 90 meters, will be a weathered steel structure designed to withstand degradation from pollutants brought by air, rain, dew, and humidity.
Director Tabacon commented, “With its aesthetically pleasing steel arch, this bridge has the potential to become an iconic landmark in Calbayog City.”
Initiated in 2018, the entire Calbayog City Coastal Road Project aims to provide an alternative 4.67-kilometer bypass road connecting Barangay San Policarpo to Barangay Rawis, reducing travel time from 30 minutes to just 10 minutes.
DPWH has completed the construction of 3.79 kilometers of the road project, including Package C segment with road widening of a 432.7-meter section, featuring 141 solar light posts and 588 solar pavement studs.
“This project aims to decongest the commercial district of Calbayog City by diverting traffic from Daang Maharlika to the bypass road, accommodating more motorists while avoiding challenges related to road right-of-way acquisition,” added Director Tabacon.
Expected to be completed in 2025, the Calbayog City Coastal Road is anticipated to reduce road accidents, stimulate commercial and tourist activities, and enhance connectivity between surrounding areas. | With DPWH reports
