It is the second construction project to be built under the USAID Tropical Storm Ida reconstruction project.
The design and construction of the bridge, located at the exit of San Vicente towards the Panamerican Highway, is valued at $4.9 million. The new bridge is part of the major transit route for sugar cane, a main export product of the country. It will be 65.2m in length and 12.5m in width, with access ramps to connect nearby street and handrails and footpaths for pedestrian safety. In addition, stone masonry retaining walls will be constructed to channel the river and concrete bases will protect the riverbed from erosion.
In November 2009, landslides and flooding caused by Tropical Storm Ida resulted in the loss of lives and infrastructure in El Salvador. The disaster affected over 125,000 people and caused 200 deaths. The storm also destroyed critical infrastructure, including bridges, roads, houses, schools, health clinics and water facilities.
