HCMC to build 2 pedestrian bridges over busy downtown street to Saigon River park

Ho Chi Minh City plans to build two pedestrian bridges over Ton Duc Thang Street from Bach Dang Wharf in the downtown area, which will be privately funded and cost over VND88 billion (US$3.4 million). The two bridges will connect with the pedestrian bridge being built across the Saigon River, and which is expected to open in February next year.The city People's Committee has given in-principle approval for building the two.Both will have steel structures, measure six meters in width, and have elevators and decorative lighting.One will go up to the intersection of Nguyen Hue and Ton Duc Thang, and the other to the intersection of Thai Van Lung Street and Ton Duc Thang.They will allow people visiting the riverside to cross busy Ton Duc Thang Street safely. Two pedestrian bridges will span Ton Duc Thang Street to Bach Dang Wharf, connecting with the newly joined river-crossing bridge, October 2026. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Tung HCMC Department of Construction is now seeking feedback from relevant agencies before negotiating with the developer.Great Wealth Trading and Services Co. Ltd. will invest in the project under a build-transfer contract.The company will cover all costs related to construction, management, and operation and in return will be allowed to install billboards and LED screens for political communication and advertising and offer services at certain designated places.The company will also renovate piers B and C at the Ba Son area. The former will see repairs, cleaning, and the installation of fences, railings, and access ramps.The riverside area will be landscaped with decorative features and equipped with electricity, water, lighting, security cameras, greenery, and visitor amenities.Pier C will be transformed into a landscaped area with flower gardens and green spaces.The two bridges were originally scheduled for completion by April 30 this year, but the construction was postponed for some procedures to be completed. Locations of the two pedestrian bridges connecting to Bach Dang Wharf along the Saigon River. Graphic by Tam Thao Nguyen Hue Plaza, 670 m long in the middle of the walking street, opened in 2015 and attracts thousands of visitors daily besides serving as a venue for major events.Thai Van Lung Street is also being studied for redevelopment as a model street promoting traffic culture and "civilized urban living."The 720-meter pedestrian bridge stretching from Bach Dang Wharf Park across the Saigon River to Thu Thiem was connected last month, linking the city center with the new urban area.The VND1 trillion bridge is also funded by a private company.