By BOY RYAN ZABAL
KALIBO, Aklan — A new bridge being built beside the Kalibo–Numancia Bridge is seen not only as a solution to traffic congestion but also as a big boost to the province’s tourism.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is now fast-tracking the completion of the Kalibo–Numancia Bridge II.
The new bridge is expected to ease the transport bottleneck from Kalibo and the rest of the towns in western Aklan.
It is also seen to become the main route of tourists and residents bound for Boracay via Barangay Caticlan, Malay.
DPWH regional director Edilberto Tayao said the new bridge will have two lanes, with a total length of 450 lineal meters, complete with lighting fixtures.
The Public Works department aims to complete the structure by June next year, Secretary Rogelio Singson had said in a statement.
Both bridges, spanning the Aklan River, connect 10 western municipalities to this capital town.
The new bridge, however, is a little elevated compared to the old one in anticipation of strong river current and possible flooding.
DPWH Region 6 had completed in July the 11-month rehabilitation of the old bridge.
At least 27 families were affected by the new bridge’s construction.
Gov. Florencio Miraflores and Rep. Teodorico Haresco Jr., in coordination with the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, provided them financial assistance. (Aklan Forum Journal/PN)
