Traveling to Ilocos region is much safer now that the Carlatan Bridge, which serves as a key link from San Fernando City, La Union, is fully rehabilitated, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said.
Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark A. Villar bared on Thursday, June 17 that the three-month repair of the 60-meter bridge was recently completed, thus providing "immediate relief to road users traversing the national highway in Barangay Carlatan".
“The rehabilitation of Carlatan Bridge intends to reduce its vulnerability against structural damage from long service life to ensure safety and convenience of residents and travelers,” Villar said.
The newly-repaired bridge also benefits users of heavy vehicles that usually ply the Manila North Road going to and from the Ilocos region.
Funded under the 2021 General Appropriations Act (GAA), the P29.4-million bridge rehab project involved retrofitting by means of carbon fiber sheets application and installation of solar street lights to provide enhanced night visibility.
"As the government slowly eases travel restrictions, DPWH is working double time to complete more infrastructure projects and cater more tourists and commuters along national roads," the secretary said.