TULUNGAGUNG – Gondang 1 bridge reconstruction project has officially started on the provincial road linking Tulungagung and Trenggalek in East Java. The project marks a major effort to improve one of the region’s key transportation routes. Officials expect the upgraded bridge to serve motorists safely for up to 50 years.

Contractors began work on June 2 after completing technical studies and engineering reviews. The project will replace the aging bridge structure with a stronger and more durable design. Engineers chose to retain the bridge’s original shape while upgrading several important structural components.

Project field supervisor Osky Ardianto said engineers focused on long-term durability during the planning stage. The team strengthened critical sections of the bridge to improve resistance against traffic loads and environmental conditions.

“We use the old design as our reference. However, we strengthen the new structure. We target a service life of at least 40 to 50 years. Therefore, our team carefully calculated every aspect of the project,” Osky said.

The most noticeable change involves the bridge’s central support system. Engineers will install several additional pillars beneath the main span. These pillars will increase stability and help the bridge handle heavier loads.

Osky explained that the support pillars play a vital role in maintaining structural strength. Stronger supports will help the bridge withstand daily traffic and river pressure. As a result, the structure should remain reliable for many years.

“The central section will use lower support pillars. We will install several pillars to strengthen the overall construction,” he added.

The reconstruction project will continue until December 11, 2026. During construction, authorities have closed the main Tulungagung–Trenggalek route that crosses Gondang 1 Bridge. Drivers must use alternative roads that local authorities have prepared.

Tulungagung Traffic Police chief AKP M Taufik Nabila said officials enforced the full closure on June 2 at 2:35 p.m. local time. Traffic police worked with the local transportation agency to create a traffic management plan. The plan aims to keep vehicles moving smoothly throughout the construction period.

“All vehicles heading toward the Gondang Bridge area now follow the designated diversion routes,” Taufik said.

He said traffic remained under control on the first day of the closure because the long holiday period reduced vehicle volume. Even so, officers will continue monitoring road conditions and traffic flows. They will also evaluate the diversion system regularly.

Officials believe the upgraded bridge will strengthen connectivity between Tulungagung and Trenggalek. In addition, the modern support system will improve safety and reliability. The project will support transportation and economic activity across the region for decades.