THE Construction of a bridge across the Likoni channel is set to start after completion of funding negotiations.
The Mombasa Gate bridge will ease crossing challenges to South Coast and boost economic activity in the region.
A document on the project, prepared by the Kenya National Highways Authority says the works will be launched soon.
KeNHA says.
The project designs, according to the document, are ready and the project is in the procurement stage.
The project is estimated to cost Ksh. 111Billion. It will be funded through a loan agreement between Kenya and Japan.
“The Exchange of notes between the Embassy of Japan and the National Treasury was signed on Friday 20th September 2019 confirming that the Government of Japan will extend a loan amounting to approximately 450Million USD towards the construction of the Mombasa Gate Bridge. However, the Loan Agreement is yet to be signed.” The document says.
The iconic bridge will span across the 15.8 kilometers, crossing, complete with a project to rehabilitate and expand streets leading to the link.
The bridge is will be elevated to compensate the large ships that use the channel to enter into Kilindini Harbour.
On Sunday, a car plunged into Likoni channel from a Kenya Ferry vessel, raising concerns on the level of preparedness to the numerous disasters at the channel.
