Media Release
2 September 2009
Australian firm builds bridges with Vietnam
Minister for Trade, Simon Crean congratulated NSW-based construction company Baulderstone on today’s opening of Ho Chi Minh City’s largest bridge, the landmark Phu MyBridge, on Vietnam’s National Day.
Completed in record time of 30 months, four months ahead of schedule, the $150 million cable stay bridge was constructed by Baulderstone in partnership with Bilfinger Berger.
“I had the opportunity to visit the Phu My Bridge during my visit to Ho Chi Minh City in July. The bridge is an excellent example of Australian ingenuity and engineering infrastructure expertise that will provide substantial economic benefits to Vietnam”, said Mr Crean.
Nine years ago, Baulderstone completed construction of the My Thuan Bridge–the first bridge over Mekong River in Vietnam. That bridge, which was built with development assistance from Australia, opened up access to the people of southern Vietnam boosting the local economy.
Now the Phu My Bridge, which spans the Saigon River, will provide a crucial link between the southern Mekong Delta region and the central and northern parts of Vietnam.
The bridge will eliminate constant traffic gridlocks caused by freight traffic, and allow goods traffic from the north and south to bypass downtown Ho Chi Minh City.
The Phu My Bridge is 1,946m long and 27.5m wide, with a navigation clearance of 45m. It will accommodate three lanes of traffic in each direction, including one for motorcycles, along with a pedestrian footpath in both directions.
Baulderstone developed the concept design and constructed the main bridge, as well as the approach viaduct structures on either side of the river, approximately 760m and 640m long respectively.
“That Baulderstone was the successful tenderer for this project and delivered it ahead of time is testament to Australia’s reputation in infrastructure development among our neighbours in ASEAN.
“The Phu My Bridge will showcase Australian capability to the world and leaves Baulderstone well-placed to secure further projects in Vietnam”, Mr Crean said.
The Phu My Bridge is symbolic of Australia’s ongoing contribution to Vietnam’s economic development.
“Like the My Thuan Bridge, the Phu My Bridge will be a daily reminder to the people Vietnam of Australia’s commitment to the growing relationship,” Mr Crean said.
Over 1000 people were employed during the life of the project.
Vietnam is Australia’s fastest growing trading partner in the ASEAN, with two-way trade reaching over $8 billion in 2008. This will be further enhanced when the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA) comes into effect next year.
Media Inquiries:
- Mr Crean's Office 02 6277 7420
- Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555