Heavy traffic seen as 2 bridges undergo repairs

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has approved the six-month repair of two major bridges starting this April, warning motorists of slow-moving traffic in the affected areas. MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino on Tuesday gave his clearance for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to start work on Dario Bridge along Edsa in Muñoz and Regalado Bridge in Fairview, both in Quezon City. “We will allow contractors to work nonstop 24/7 so it will be over soon,” Tolentino told reporters during an ocular inspection of the 17-meter-long Dario Bridge.

The rehabilitation of Dario Bridge, which the DPWH said had already shown some cracks, will begin in the first week of April and is expected to be completed within six months. Two northbound lanes will be closed to motorists in the first two months and another four will be closed in the next four months. Tolentino said the reconstruction of Dario Bridge would coincide with that of Regalado.

Noemie Recio, director of the MMDA’s traffic engineering center, said the contractor would be required to build a temporary bridge before they can start major construction works. “Our motorists should expect slow traffic in the area. Those headed toward North Luzon Expressway should take alternate routes,” Recio said. MMDA and DWPH officials, along with bus operators, are set to meet on Thursday to discuss alternate routes for those using Regalado Bridge.