Motorists to brace for heavier traffic on Monday

CEBU, Philippines - As repairs on the First Mactan-Mandaue Bridge will start on Monday, motorists going to or coming from Lapu-Lapu City are advised to brace for heavy traffic.

The Department of Public Works and Highways will implement the repair of the first bridge and the Marcelo Fernan Bridge in 70 days.  But the works on the two bridges will not be done simultaneously.

Phase one of the repair of the first bridge, which  will cover the left side of the first lane will be from February 25 to March while the second phase, which is the repair of the left side of the second lane, will be from March 5 to March 12.

Repairs on the Marcelo Fernan Bridge will start on March 13 and is expected to be done by May 21.

Engr. Eda de Guzman, chief of the Maintenance Section of DPWH-Sixth Engineering district said that if the weather cooperates, the number of days for the repair of the two bridges will be lesser.

The repair includes removal and replacement of asphalt pavement including the repair and replacement of extension joints.

Motorists will not be allowed to enter the old bridge during the repair and have to take the Marcelo Fernan Bridge.   (FREEMAN)