The bureau said the bridge has been in operation for more than 20 years and is one of Macau’s key cross-sea transport links. Due to prolonged exposure to a marine environment, parts of the concrete structure have shown signs of corrosion, while some components of the auxiliary facilities and cable-stayed system have reached the end of their service life. The works aim to carry out comprehensive structural maintenance to ensure safety and extend the bridge’s lifespan.
The scope of work includes repairs to the main box girder, bridge piers, pedestrian walkway and cable-stayed system, as well as replacement of ageing components. The cables will not be fully replaced but will be reinforced with a fire-resistant protective layer to improve durability. The project will also address colour discrepancies on the bridge towers caused by ageing and weathering, with repainting included in the plan. The materials used are expected to last 20 years, and the project carries a two-year warranty.
Civil engineer Lai Chi Hou said the works will be carried out while maintaining traffic operations. Only the outer lane will be temporarily occupied at night to install work platforms for cable-related jobs, avoiding the need for full bridge closure. Authorities will coordinate with transport departments and announce temporary traffic arrangements in due course to minimise disruption for commuters.
According to tender requirements, contractors must employ 40 to 50 workers, with at least 5 percent being local employees, and assign seven engineering management staff to the project. The bureau added that structural repairs, lighting upgrades and asphalt resurfacing had already been carried out on the bridge in previous years, and this project forms part of an ongoing maintenance programme. Future work will be assessed based on annual structural inspection reports.
