The Department of Transport and Public Works resumed work on the Maalgate Bridge construction project in George in September 2022 after the original contractor abandoned the job in June 2022. The project is now expected to reach practical completion in November 2023.
The Bridge serves as an alternative route between Mossel Bay and George with tourists often stopping to enjoy the sights and sounds. The bridge has had to be widened to keep pace with the growing population of the Garden Route.
The existing bridge, first built in 1938, is a three-span reinforced concrete arch bridge with spandrel walls. The arches are being filled with crushed stone, and road layerworks and an asphalt surface is being placed on top.
Because of the importance of the Maalgate Bridge to the community, the Department chose to keep the aesthetics of the original structure intact. Work being done to widen the bridge will not affect the look and feel of the original bridge.
The Department aims to provide 60 work opportunities through this project. Stop-go traffic controls will be in place during the festive season.