New Carpenters Bridge to close for additional constructions
The newly-finished Carpenters Bridge in Brgy. Tabucan, Mandurriao would be closed in three weeks time to pave way for the construction of its approaches. The new bridge which links the districts of Molo and Mandurriao is now being used by motorists.
Mayor Jerry Treñas said he was informed by the contractor of their plan to start the construction of the bridge's approaches. The bridge is expected to be totally functional by the month of April this year.
The construction of the new bridge is under Phase II, Contract Package No. 2 of the Stage 1 of the Iloilo Flood Control Project. The construction started last March 1, 2006. The entire Iloilo Flood Control Project cost P230 million. The project is being undertaken by China-International Water and Electrical Corporation.
Treñas said once the new bridge is closed, the motorists and pedestrians would used the old bridge. Apart from the pending construction of the approaches, the contractor is also on the process of constructing a dike near the bridge.
The dike which is constructed along the areas which used to be fishponds will protect the water from penetrating portion of the ground before the bridge itself.
Meanwhile, Treñas tasked the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) to make a plan to rehabilitate the old bridge. The CPDO is ordered to restore the old bridge. The old bridge would be used purposely for pedestrians.
The mayor said the budget for the restoration of the old bridge will come from the savings in the construction of the new bridge. He envisioned that the old bridge will serve as a park for people and anglers can fish in the area. There will be benches beneath the old bridge to serve as sitting area. This will make the old bridge useful, said Treñas.