The Lagos Third Mainland Bridge, which has been partially closed to traffic since January, is set for re-opening to motorists within the week.
The Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi, disclosed this in Lagos while inspecting ongoing projects in the State in the company of members of the Senate and House Committee on Works.
According to the minister, the decision to reopen the bridge will bring reprieve to road users.
“In the next seven days the bridge will be opened to ease traffic. I have directed the contractors to open the second lane in my name in seven days’ time.
“Officially, President Bola Tinubu will be commissioning the rehabilitated road when he will be commissioning the coastal road,” Umahi said.
He explained that the 11.8-kilometre dual lanes project being handled by CCEC was initially awarded at the cost of N21 billion, of which 30 per cent of the cost has been paid.
Umahi, however, stated that there are some additional costs emanating from asphalt which was at N22,000 per square metre, solar light, and CCTV installation, among others. And this extra cost he said the government will pay as it is contractually obtainable.
Meanwhile, the Lagos State government announced on Saturday that the Third Mainland Bridge will be re-opened fully on Thursday, April 4, 2024.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, disclosed this on his X handle on Saturday.
He said he is pleased to announce that the Third Mainland Bridge would be re-opened fully on Thursday.
The commissioner thanked Lagosians for their patience and cooperation.
He wrote: “Dear Lagos residents; we’re pleased to share that the Third Mainland Bridge will resume full operations on April 4th, 2024, following extensive repairs.
“We sincerely thank you for your patience and cooperation, and we look forward to even smoother travels ahead. Warm regards.”
The bridge has been undergoing rehabilitation since January 2024 with partial closure.