Rome
Reuters
–
The Italian government ultimately approved Wednesday the construction of the world’s longest single-span bridge connecting Sicily to the mainland, despite environmental, fiscal and other concerns that have slowed it for decades.
The 3.7-kilometer (2.3-mile) structure has been debated since at least the late 1960s as a tool to develop the poor south of Italy.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing government made that a priority, securing 13.5 billion euros ($15.63 billion) over the next decade, building it and building its surrounding facilities.
The Economic Planning and Sustainable Development Committee (CIPESS) granted final approval to the project at a meeting in Rome, said Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini.
According to the Messina Strait Company, the bridge will be completed in 2032.
The project faces severe opposition from those questioning the wisdom of building such a bridge in earthquake zones. Many also fear cost overruns in construction contracts, potential environmental damage, and mafia penetration.
Some civic groups opposed to the bridge say it is unnecessary, and this week the Environment Association filed a complaint with the European Union, flagging serious risks to the local environment.
However, the bridge will also have strong support from those who believe there will be a link between high-speed rail and roads as an alternative to the current ferry intersection.
The Messina Bridge Strait Project was awarded to the Eurolink Consortium following an international bid. The consortium is led by WebUild, Italy’s largest construction company. This includes the Spanish group Sacyr and Japanese group IHI.
Wednesday’s approval will allow for the commencement of preliminary work, including archaeological and geological surveys, according to the Messina Strait Company, which oversees the project. Land expropriation is also permitted.
Last week, Salvini told reporters that a national audit court verification is necessary before the cipess resolution comes into effect. A source close to the issue said this could take weeks.
WebUild has aggressive construction projects around the world, including the huge Nem project in Saudi Arabia. Sacyr will take part in the expansion of the Panama Canal, while Ihi is involved in the Akai Suspension Bridge in Japan and the Osmangaji Suspension Bridge in Turkey.
WebUild estimates that construction can create more than 100,000 jobs.
