Infrastructure Malta is developing a new footbridge at Blata l-Bajda to facilitate cycling and pedestrian connections between this area, Hamrun, Floriana and Marsa.
The new circular girder bridge will be built in 2019 over Triq San Gorg Preca, next to the MUSEUM Society headquarters, to connect Hamrun’s Triq il-Kbira San Guzepp with the Spencer Hill and Menqa areas of Marsa, including the nearby ferry terminals and the Floriana Park and Ride facilities. It will provide a safer arterial road crossing for pedestrians and cyclists, replacing the existing pelican lights. The overpass will also improve access to the northbound and southbound Blata l-Bajda bus lay bys, two popular public transport connections for commuters travelling to and from the south of Malta.
The structure’s design incorporates gently sloping ramps, taking cyclists and pedestrians from Triq il-Kbira San Guzepp, Hamrun, over the southbound carriageway of Triq San Gorg Preca (the stretch of road between Triq Dicembru 13 and Triq Nazzjonali) towards the other side of the road at Marsa. The geometry of the footbridge aims to smoothly link both sides of the road, with minimal impact on the adjacent landscaped areas. Whilst walking or cycling over the bridge, commuters will be passing in line with the canopies of some of the mature trees located in this area, offering a new perspective of the adjacent park. The structure also includes passenger lifts to ensure it is accessible to everyone.
A call for offers for the construction of this bridge closes on 12 December 2018. Infrastructure Malta is liaising with the planning and environmental authorities to obtain the necessary development permits. Once the ongoing procurement process is concluded, the selected contractor will be required to build the bridge within a few months, by the end of 2019. This project may be part-financed by the structural and investment funds of the European Union.
The agency is also finalising preparations for another cycling and walking overpass being built in 2019 across Vjal l-Avjazzjoni, in Luqa. This 34-metre structure will facilitate pedestrian, public transport and cycling commutes to and from several localities around Gudja, including the nearby Malta International Airport and the Institute of Tourism Studies. Other new facilities encouraging walking and cycling are being developed as part of other upcoming projects, including the Central Link Project at Mriehel, Birkirkara, Balzan and Attard and the Marsa Junction Project, between Paola and Marsa.
Infrastructure Malta is committed to maintain the ongoing unprecedented investment in the country’s transport infrastructure, to improve the quality of the road network whilst upgrading it to provide safer facilities for alternative, more sustainable modes of travel.