The Federal government, on Saturday, announced that comprehensive works involving resurfacing and lighting of the Third Mainland Bridge will begin on Wednesday, November 1.
The Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, made this known after the inspection of under-decks of some bridges on Lagos Island.
He explained that the proposed three-month maintenance job is the first phase of the comprehensive repair works meant to secure the integrity and the aesthetics of the upper deck of the Third Mainland Bridge.
Inspected bridges, repairs schedules
The bridges inspected include the Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge, Independence Bridge and Shoreline Protection at Marina, as as well Iganmu and Marine Beach bridges.
Umahi explained that the maintenance of the aesthetics of the Third Mainland Bridge would include replacement of the railings, installation of solar-powered lights and CCTV cameras for optimal security of the bridge.
The minister assured that the period for repair works would be without discomfort to motorists. He said the repairs will take place only between midnight and 4am, and only on weekends.
Also, Umahi stated that there would be the engagement of more than one contractor due to the emergency nature of the work.
He furthermore said that this will end in Phase Four that will entail the repairs of deflected slabs, bearings, piers and pile caps.
The minister was accompanied by the Director Bridges, Mr. Omotayo Awosanya; Director of Highways, Southwest, Mr. Adedamola Kuti; Controller Works, Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Kesha, and contractors.
The last time the bridge was shut was between midnight of on Saturday, October 21 and midnight of Sunday 22.
Kesha explained that closure in relation to the current repairs that begin Wednesday.
During a tour of the Third Mainland Bridge then, Kesha told newsmen, “This repair is going to last beyond January. We don’t intend to do any work that will last only one or two months.”
Kesha had said some of the components needed for the comprehensive rehabilitation works were being imported for the emergency repairs to begin.
She explained that what the Federal Ministry of Works had been doing before now was attending to failed portions, adding that the comprehensive rehabilitation would involve total removal and replacement of the asphalt surface.