$2.19b contract awarded for cross-border link
A $2.19 billion contract has been awarded to a consortium to build the Hong Kong section of the Shenzhen Western Corridor, scheduled for completion by 2005.
The new cross-border link is expected to bring a net economic benefit of $175 billion in the years to 2020.
Vice-Premier Zeng Peiyan, Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa, Guangdong Governor Huang Huahua and Shenzhen Party Secretary Huang Liman will officiate at a foundation-stone laying ceremony in Shenzhen on Thursday.
The 5km Hong Kong Shenzhen Western Corridor will be a dual three-lane expressway spanning Deep Bay, linking Ngau Hom Shek in Hong Kong and Shekou in Shenzhen.
The Hong Kong section will run for 3.2km, while the remaining 1.8km will be built by the Shenzhen government.
Secretary for the Environment, Transport and Works Sarah Liao Sau-tung yesterday signed the contract with Gammon-Skanska-MBEC Joint Venture.
The link was hailed as a landmark for the Pearl River Delta and a symbol of close collaboration and partnership between the two jurisdictions.
Officials said it would help alleviate traffic at the nearly saturated vehicle crossings at Lok Ma Chau, Man Kam To and Sha Tau Kok and further boost economic development.
