Tamkang Bridge main span to be completed Sept 16

淡江大橋主橋塔將於9月16日完工

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The main span of New Taipei’s Tamkang Bridge is set to be completed on Sept. 16, officials said.

Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱) said he hopes to hold the opening ceremony on May 9 next year, with official traffic beginning on May 12, per CNA. He added the festivities would run two to three days so the public can experience the bridge up close.

The bridge’s main span measures 450 meters, and the section across the Tamsui River runs 920 meters. Connecting Bali and Tamsui, it is billed as the world’s largest single-tower, asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge.

Chen called the Tamkang Bridge an internationally significant landmark. He said its design — inspired by Cloud Gate Dance Theatre — gives the structure a dynamic visual appeal while preserving the natural look of Tamsui and Bali.

After the bridge opens, traffic pressure on the Guandu Bridge is expected to decrease by 30%. Commuters from Tamsui heading to Taoyuan Airport or Taipei could save around 25 minutes.

Chen said the project faced labor shortages and rapidly rising material costs during the pandemic, which increased expenses, but praised the engineering team for keeping work on track.

The bridge will also feature space reserved for light rail, bicycle paths, pedestrian walkways, and a visitor service center to present its construction, story, and unique features.