Delay in bridge unveiling now scheduled for October.
Portugal's road network administrator, Infraestruturas de Portugal (IP), has announced an extended closure of the Vascão Bridge on National Road 122 (EN122), which links the districts of Faro and Beja. The bridge, situated at kilometre 72.816, will remained blocked to traffic due to problems in securing the timely supply of necessary equipment for the development of the bridge's rehabilitation and structural reinforcement project.
The closure was initially announced for reopening on May 17, but this date has been pushed back until September 30 when traffic is expected to be fully restored. According to IP, the delay is due to obstacles in procuring essential materials for the work.
IP has called for understanding from EN122 users regarding any inconvenience caused by the delay, assuring that the ongoing project aims to ensure improved levels of availability, reliability, comfort, and safety for the crossing over the same-named river that marks the border between Algarve and Alentejo.
The works involve the complete replacement of the road deck, creation of a 6-meter wide carriageway with two lanes, the addition of two hard shoulders, and two walkways. Furthermore, paving, signage, and safety barriers will be installed to enhance the safety of the bridge.
Until the scheduled reopening, traffic diversions will remain in place, and they will be duly signposted. Given the postponement until October 2025, it is essential to adhere to these diversions to ensure a smoother traffic flow.
In light of the delay in the reopening of the Vascão Bridge on EN122, which links Beja and Faro districts in Portugal, it's important for road users to follow the traffic diversions that have been signposted, as the bridge's reopening has been extended until September 30. The industry-led initiative involves not only the replacement of the road deck but also the creation of a wider carriageway, additional safety measures, and structural improvements, all aiming to boost the region's transportation sector, particularly in the Algarve and Alentejo regions.
