The Danjiang Bridge, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, now has an official opening date: May 12, 2026. This announcement follows the completion of the installation of the last segment of the steel deck linking the two banks of the Tamsui River estuary in northern Taiwan for the first time.
The Danjiang Bridge and its impact on urban traffic
Located in the coastal area north of Taipei, the bridge will connect Highway 2 with several strategic routes, Highway 15, Coastal Route 61 and the Bali-Xindian Expressway (Route 64). This is expected to substantially improve traffic flow between Tamsui, Linkou and Taoyuan International Airport.
It will also relieve congestion on the Guandu Bridge, located 5 km upstream, allowing for greater efficiency in daily commuting to downtown Taipei and key industrial areas.
A world reference in structural engineering
The Danjiang will become the longest single-tower asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge in the world. Its 200-meter-high concrete mast supports a 450-meter main span and is prepared to withstand extreme weather conditions and earthquakes, which are characteristic of the region.
The choice of a single-mast design not only responds to technical, but also environmental criteria. By reducing the number of points of contact with the riverbed, the impact on the estuary ecosystem is minimized.
Infrastructure designed for the future
The bridge will have dedicated lanes for cyclists and pedestrians, and its structure is prepared to integrate a future extension of Danhai’s light rail network, reinforcing its role as strategic infrastructure in the region.
The design has also contemplated the iconic sunset views over the Tamsui. The deck was raised to a height that allows for the safe passage of boats and keeps the view from the main vantage points clear.
With the main structure completed, the next phases include asphalting, installation of lighting fixtures, sound barriers, auxiliary systemssound barriers, auxiliary systems, cable tension adjustment and structural tests. Everything indicates that the schedule will be met in time for its inauguration in May 2026.
Source: Zaha Hadid Architects
Photo: Paddy Chao