LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- Balili Bridge will be up for further repairs this year according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
An additional P8.5 million will be earmarked for the repair of the more than 50-year-old bridge where close to P10 million was allotted last year for the retrofitting of the bridge connecting Km. 6 and Barangay Cruz of La Trinidad which is a major road used by travelers going to other parts of Benguet and Mountain Province.
Engineer Ireneo Gallato, Benguet First District Engineering Office chief, said retrofitting works for the bridge was finished December 2019.
DPWH said retrofitting of the bridge was not enough based on the further evaluation by their office due to old age.
“To continue the total rehabilitation of the bridge we are on the procurement process of the P8.5 million,” he said.
The engineer disclosed an initial detour bridged was proposed but negotiations with affected residents in the area may take some time and will cause further delay to the project.
Only vehicles weighing five tons are allowed to traverse along the bridge while motorists are urged to take alternate roads such as Shilan-Beckel road.
Gallato added the DPWH is coordinating with the local police and the local government unit for traffic assistance.
In July 29, 2019, Balili Bridge has shown signs of weakening, transverse cracks, and scouring has developed on the concrete deck due to wear and tear.
The Balili Bridge has a condition rating of “bad” based on the Bridge Management System due to the numerous defects of the deck of the bridge near the provincial capitol in La Trinidad.