CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Vice Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda led an emergency meeting with the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), the Porac Quarry Association, project contractors, concerned government agencies, and other stakeholders to discuss ongoing projects within a 1.5-kilometer radius of the SCTEX Bridge.
The meeting focused on assessing the current status of the rehabilitation and immediately addressing technical, traffic, safety, and environmental concerns surrounding the vital infrastructure.
According to Engr. Randy Viacrusis, BCDA Vice President for Strategic Projects Management, the rehabilitation is ongoing to protect this critical national asset and ensure the uninterrupted flow of transportation and trade across Central Luzon.
Based on BCDA’s latest update, the total cost of the rehabilitation plan is estimated at ₱3 billion. Key components include:
- Diversion Channel: Will serve as the bridge’s first line of defense against strong water currents. Steel sheet piles will be installed to properly divert water flow from upstream to downstream.
- Package 1A – ₱2.089 Billion: Covers the rehabilitation of the bridge itself. Since some pile foundations are already exposed due to river degradation, temporary supports will be installed first before the affected columns are demolished and rebuilt.
- Package 1B – ₱764 Million: Focuses on a long-term solution to riverbed degradation. A groundsill will be constructed to maintain the proper elevation of the riverbed and prevent further damage to the bridge’s foundation.
BCDA emphasized that these works are necessary to maintain the structural integrity and safety of the SCTEX Bridge.
Vice Governor Pineda expressed full support for the BCDA projects. He pledged that through an inter-agency task force, the Provincial Government of Pampanga will cooperate to expedite implementation, including consultations with residents and businesses that may be affected by the rehabilitation.
“The SCTEX Bridge is a critical artery for transportation, trade, and investment in Central Luzon. By strengthening this bridge and addressing riverbed degradation, we ensure the safety of motorists, maintain the continuous flow of goods and services, and strengthen connectivity between provinces, economic zones, airports, and seaports,” Vice Governor Pineda said.
The post Capitol, BCDA align on ₱3-B SCTEX bridge rehab first appeared on Pampanga News Now.