The P3.1-billion Davao River Bridge, or Bucana Bridge, is set to open by December as construction nears full completion, with the project now 99.2 percent finished. 

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said Monday that the bridge, which connects Davao City’s eastern and western coastal areas, is expected to ease traffic congestion and improve citywide connectivity.

Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain said the remaining work includes pavement markings at Approach Road 1, sidewalks and fencing, and the final installation of electrical components and system connections.

“We are expediting the completion of the bridge’s final requirements so it can be safely opened to the public. Our priority is to deliver this bridge with the highest level of quality, safety standards, and structural integrity,” Sadain said.

Funded through China’s Official Development Assistance, the four-lane, six-span extradosed bridge stretches 480.20 meters, with 1,340 meters of approach roads. 

It will officially open once DPWH Regional Office 11 completes the asphalt road linking the bridge to Quezon Boulevard, which will serve as the main access route to the Davao City Coastal Road.