Remember the date December 11, 2022. On this day, Hong Kong’s Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Bridge opened to traffic. It became the first major bridge built exclusively by a mainland company in Hong Kong.
The Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Bridge is an important cross-sea corridor. It sits at Junk Bay in southeastern New Territories. China Road and Bridge Corp built it over four years.
Let’s take a closer look at this impressive structure. The Cross Bay Link is about 1.8 km long. A 1 km marine viaduct is part of it. The steel bridge forms an integral part of this viaduct.
The Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Bridge is the longest span and heaviest steel arch bridge in Hong Kong. Its components were prefabricated in mainland China. The 200-meter-long bridge was delivered from Nantong. Nantong is in eastern Jiangsu Province.
The “float-over method” was first applied for bridge erection in China here. The project team considered tidal conditions for the erection. High strength S690 steel is used for the arches. This was a breakthrough.
It’s the first marine viaduct in Hong Kong with a carriageway, a footpath, a cycle track and viewing platforms. The Cross Bay Link connects the Tseung Kwan O-Lam Tin Tunnel and Wan Po Road. This helps relieve traffic congestion within the Tseung Kwan O town center.
Imagine reducing your journey time by 20 minutes. The Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Bridge made it possible. It connects to the cycle track network in Tseung Kwan O. This forms a 5-kilometer circular route along the Junk Bay coastline.
The centerpiece of the sea link is the Eternity Arch. Two outward leaning arches form an interconnected ring. It resembles the mathematical symbol of infinity. This reflects the vibrant spirit of Tseung Kwan O.
The 200-meter double-arch steel bridge weighs about 10,000 tonnes. It stands over 40 meters high. It can withstand super typhoons with wind speeds up to 320 kilometers per hour.
AECOM provided detailed design and site supervision for the project. Dr. Robin Sham designed the Cross Bay Link. He is AECOM’s global long span and specialty bridges director.
Wind load was a crucial design consideration. Wind tunnel tests verified the aerodynamic stability. A tuned mass damper suppresses vibrations. Grade S690QL high-strength structural steel was used for the arches. This reduced material input and enhanced aesthetics.
The project used extensive prefabrication. This ensured better quality and safety. The double-arch steel bridge was delivered to Hong Kong by a semi-submersible barge. The float-over erection method completed the bridge on February 26, 2021.
The Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Bridge stands as a testament to innovation. It exemplifies sustainable and efficient project delivery. The bridge not only eases traffic but also provides recreational opportunities. The Tseung Kwan O Cross Bay Bridge is more than just a crossing. It is a symbol of Hong Kong’s vibrant spirit and boundless energy.