Faster and more convenient travel is expected in Orani, Bataan as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is nearing the completion of a bridge widening project along Roman Expressway.
In his report to DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, DPWH Regional Office 3 Director Roseller A. Tolentino said that the DPWH Bataan First District Engineering Office (DEO) is fast-tracking the widening of the 24-meter Orani Bridge 1 in Barangay Mulawin.
Presently at 89 percent completed, the expansion of the Orani Bridge 1 from its current width of 18.3 meters to 21.88 meters will transform it into a six (6)-lane bridge. The project is expected to be completed within the first quarter of 2024.
According to Director Tolentino, the bridge widening project includes provision of 1.11-meter-wide sidewalks on both sides for pedestrian mobility and construction of stone masonry slope protection to ensure the strength of the bridge.
The Roman Expressway is a superhighway that links Bataan towns from Dinalupihan in the north to Mariveles in the southern part of the peninsular province. It serves as a major thoroughfare for almost all classes of vehicles with urbanized areas sporadically located along its stretch.
“This project is vital in lessening travel time along the section of Roman Expressway in the town of Orani by increasing the number of lanes,” said Director Tolentino.
The P28.99-million bridge widening project is funded under the 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA).