Second Penang Bridge to cost within RM4.5bil, says JKSB
The Star Online, 10 October 2013
The view of the second Penang bridge at night where street lights and LED decorative lights are switched on to mark the Malaysia Day celebration.
GEORGE TOWN: The Second Penang Bridge project cost remains within the RM4.5bil budget, despite several safety testings, says the bridge concessionaire, Jambatan Kedua Sdn Bhd (JKSB).
Its managing director Datuk Ir Dr Ismail Mohamed Taib said previously there was a savings of RM50mil, which is now being used for safety management, quality requirement as well as landscaping.
"The project cost is still within the RM4.5bil budget," he told reporters after a load testing at the cable stayed bridge of the project, here today.
Ismail said the Second Penang Bridge was 99% complete and the JKSB expects it to be fully ready by Nov 8. The opening date will be announced upon approval from the Ministry of Works.
According to Ismail, the remaining work on the bridge involves the expansion joints, minor and final touches, which are likely to be completed by the end of this month.
Once done, he said the JKSB will send a report to be endorsed by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) and the Penang Municipal Council (MPPP), before the bridge is opened to the public.
The Second Penang Bridge covers 24km with 16.9km over water, and links Batu Maung on the island to Batu Kawan on the mainland - Bernama.
