New steel bridge linking Zhendong Borough to central Fengshan could be completed by 2028

Residents of Zhendong Borough currently rely on the historic Dongfu Bridge for school trips, shopping and daily travel, even though the bridge is narrow, low and frequently flooded.

The bridge is only two meters wide, allowing just one motorcycle to pass at a time. Heavy rain can send the Fengshan River over its deck, leaving people and vehicles unable to cross and forcing residents to take longer routes. Steep approaches and mixed traffic have also raised concerns about travel and emergency response.

Kaohsiung City Government plans to spend NT$160 million on a 102-meter steel bridge across the Fengshan River. The project will connect Zhendong Street with Sanmin Road Lane 44 and include the bridge deck, lighting, drainage, retaining walls and approach roads.

Because the project is near the historic Dongbian Gate, the city says it will use a single-span steel box-girder design without piers in the river. Officials said the design aims to limit effects on the river channel and the surrounding cultural heritage while improving access. Basic design review has been completed, detailed design is expected by the end of the year, and construction is planned for next year, with completion possible as early as 2028.