GEORGE TOWN: Gurney Bridge - a landmark connection between Gurney Drive, the iconic seafront promenade in George Town, Penang, and the rapidly developing Andaman Island township, is officially open on Friday (Dec 12).
The 1.2km-long bridge, costing RM350mil, is part of the major integrated development plans on Penang’s northern coast, known as the Andaman Island project, led by Eastern & Oriental Berhad (E&O).
Constructed to be a signature landmark along Penang’s northern seafront, the eight-lane Gurney Bridge also features 4m-wide pedestrian walkways on both sides.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who opened the bridge, said in his speech that the Andaman Island development is one of the most ambitious township projects in the region.
"When Penangites hear about new projects, they usually think about whether it will make the traffic worse.
"I have been told that this bridge is built to ease traffic, not add to it. It offers an alternative route, helps spread out vehicle flow and smoothens travel along the northern corridor.
"The state is also always mindful of the impact of any new developments, especially when it concerns traffic," he said.
E&O's executive chairman Datuk Seri Tee Eng Ho said the Gurney Bridge is the second one linking Andaman Island, following the completion of the first 600m-long Andaman Bridge in 2022.
He said the opening of the Gurney Bridge will enhance the ecosystem by improving access for residents, visitors and future communities, supporting a car-lite and connected lifestyle.
Managing director Kok Tuck Cheong said with the Gurney Bridge, travel time between Andaman Island and Gurney Drive is expected to be reduced by 15 minutes to just a 5-minute drive.
He also said the bridge is part of E&O’s wider vision for Andaman Island as a master-planned 15-minute city integrating homes, workplaces, hospitality and recreation.
Also present at the launch were Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, Penang state secretary Datuk Seri Zulkifli Long, state finance officer Datuk Zabidah Safar, state executive councillors, heads of departments and senior officials of E&O.
