New Taipei Tamkang Bridge final piece completed
新北淡江大橋尾段橋面完工
| TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The final segment of New Taipei’s Tamkang Bridge was connected on Tuesday.
President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and Transportation Minister Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱) attended the ceremony, with the bridge set to open in May 2026, per CNA. Chen also said five major events will be held to mark the opening. Selected through Taiwan’s first international bridge competition, the project was designed by architect Zaha Hadid. Inspired by Cloud Gate Dance Theatre, the structure aims to preserve the natural look of Tamsui and Bali while creating a dynamic visual landmark. The main span measures 450 meters, and the section across the Tamsui River runs 920 meters. Connecting Bali and Tamsui, it is billed as the world’s largest single-tower, asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge. Chen said the bridge will become a new landmark and a “new national gateway,” adding that passengers flying into Songshan or Taoyuan airports will see the Tamkang Bridge as a first sight of Taiwan. Plans are underway to add tourist facilities, including an exhibition hall. The bridge will accommodate vehicles, the Bali Light Rail, bicycles, and pedestrians — serving both transport and leisure purposes by easing traffic and creating space for tourism and recreation. After the opening, traffic pressure on the Guandu Bridge is expected to decrease by 30%, and commuters from Tamsui heading to Taoyuan Airport or Taipei could save around 25 minutes. To celebrate, the Ministry of Transportation will host an arts festival in May 2026 featuring a Cloud Gate performance, a road run, an opening parade, a starlight concert, and a public open day. |
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| Keoni Everington Taiwan News, Staff Writer | |
| 2025-09-16 |
