Here is what to know about proposed Fourth Mainland Bridge

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has confirmed that the long-awaited construction of the Fourth Mainland Bridge will begin in the first quarter of 2024.

He announced at the Lagos West Senatorial District Town Hall Meeting a few days ago.

The governor emphasised a gradual construction approach, assuring fair compensation for tenants and landlords affected by building demolitions during the project.

Here are 13 facts about the Fourth Mainland Bridge:

1. Second longest in Africa: Upon completion, the bridge will be the second longest in Africa, featuring three toll gates, nine interchanges, a 4.5-kilometer Lagoon Bridge, and an eco-friendly environment. It will also be the longest connecting Lagos Island to the mainland.

2. Project overview: The 38km bridge project by the Lagos State Government connects Lagos Island through Langbasa and Baiyeku in Ikorodu across the Lagos Lagoon to Itamaga, Ikorodu.

3. Delayed start: Initially slated for 2017 with a 2019 completion target and N844 billion budget, the project did not commence on schedule.

4. Technical specifications: The 2 x 4 lane carriageway road includes a provision for a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lane and future expansion.

5. Origin: The bridge concept originated during former Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

6. Contractors: In December 2022, CCECC-CRCCIG CONSORTIUM was chosen as the preferred bidder and will execute the project based on the state government’s plans.

7. Timeline: Bridge construction begins 57 years after Lagos State’s creation and 34 years after the Third Mainland Bridge completion.

8. Renewed commitment: Sanwo-Olu vows construction will begin by the end of the first quarter of 2024, despite prior delays.

9. Funding and tolling: Estimated at $2.5 billion, the project will be delivered through a public-private partnership and tolled for two years initially.

10. Completion target: As of 2022, completion was projected for 2027.

11. Connectivity: Eight roads, including the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and Igbogbo-Lagos, will be aligned with the Fourth Mainland Bridge.

12. Traffic relief: The bridge aims to complement existing bridges and reduce traffic congestion.

13. Route: The 37-kilometer bridge spans from Abraham Adesanya in Ajah on the Eti-Osa-Lekki-Epe corridor to Owutu/Isawo in Ikorodu via the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway shoreline.