Italy has revived plans for the world’s longest single-span suspension bridge, spanning over 2 miles between Sicily and mainland Italy. The project, known as the Strait of Messina Bridge, aims to connect the two regions with a massive bridge.
The Italian government approved construction to begin in May 2026 and complete by 2032, despite concerns about practicality and cost. However, experts say that the bridge’s design can mitigate seismic risks, citing successful examples from Japan and Turkey.
Lamya Amleh, a structural engineering researcher, suggests using fiber-reinforced polymers and expansion joints to absorb seismic activity. She also highlights the importance of durability and maintenance, warning that materials may degrade faster due to salty air.
Despite these challenges, the project’s supporters argue that it will bring prosperity to southern Italy. The bridge is expected to create over 100,000 jobs and stimulate local economic growth. With a proposed budget of $15.7 billion, the project is estimated to take 8-10 years to complete if things go smoothly.
However, not everyone is convinced, with some locals opposing the bridge due to concerns about funding and environmental impact. The “No Ponte” movement argues that the funds should be allocated to existing infrastructure projects. Nevertheless, experts say that the bridge’s benefits outweigh its challenges, making it a potentially game-changing project for Italy’s economy and infrastructure.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/08/09/nx-s1-5495666/messina-bridge-sicily-italy