TULUNGAGUNG – Junjung Bridge project in Tulungagung is set to move forward this month as local officials prepare to finalize the construction contract for the long-awaited infrastructure development.
The Tulungagung Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, known locally as PUPR, has placed the Junjung Bridge project among its top priorities this year. Residents have waited years for the bridge upgrade because the current structure poses safety risks, especially for motorcycle riders who still cross the damaged bridge every day.
Acting Head of Highways at the Tulungagung PUPR Office, Ahmad Rifai Sodik, said the agency has completed most administrative and technical preparations ahead of the contract signing process.
“Our next major focus is the Junjung Bridge. We aim to complete the contract this month so construction work can start immediately,” Sodik said on Saturday.
The new bridge will strengthen regional connectivity in Sumbergempol District and improve transportation access for nearby communities. Officials also expect the project to support local economic activity by making goods distribution faster and safer.
According to Sodik, the government wants to accelerate the project to maintain the momentum of regional infrastructure development. For that reason, officials continue to finalize technical documents and field preparations without delay.
Once the contract receives final approval, construction teams will mobilize heavy equipment and technical personnel to the site. The agency hopes the early start will help workers meet the construction targets on schedule.
“We continue to prepare every stage carefully. After the contract signing, the team will immediately move to the field and begin work,” he added.
The Tulungagung administration has allocated around Rp 7.5 billion for the bridge project. Authorities believe the new structure will improve daily mobility for residents while supporting business and trade activities in surrounding villages.
Local residents have long demanded safer access in the area because many people still rely on the aging bridge despite its deteriorating condition. Motorcycle riders often continue crossing the bridge even though officials have warned about potential dangers.
The government therefore considers the Junjung Bridge redevelopment essential for public safety and economic growth. Officials now expect physical construction work to intensify shortly after the contract process finishes in May.
“For the Junjung Bridge, we have already prepared the contract plan. After that, construction activities will move quickly at the project site,” Sodik said.