The contract for the construction of a 720-meter bridge across the Fanga’uta Lagoon and 2.1 kilometers of approach roads was signed today, 10 September by the Acting Prime Minister, Hon. Dr Taniela Fusimalohi and Managing Director of McConnell Dowell Constructors Ltd., in Nuku'alofa.
The civil works contract signed is for a duration of three years and is scheduled to be completed at the end of 2028.
The Ministry of Infrastructure (MOI) said the bridge and roads to be constructed will have climate resilience features.
However, the government is taking the lead in the early works and preliminary stage of the civil works with ADB grant processing, Board approval and grant effectiveness following in the next few months.
"ADB grant has no objection to award the Contract to McConnell Dowell Construction Ltd on 15 July 2025. The letter of award was issued on 14 August 2025 and the Contractor has presented and furnished the required Performance Security (Bank Guarantee) in accordance with the Conditions of Contract," MOI stated.
The Tonga SECURE Project combines two sectors, the transport sector and urban development sector, and implemented under one project.
MOI also stated that a Communication and Visibility Plan will implemented by the government through national channels, complemented by ADB and World Bank platforms.
Attending the signing were representatives from McConnell Dowell Constructor Ltd, led by the Managing Director Mr. Fraser Wyllie, World Bank country manager, Natalia Palu, CEO for Ministry of Finance, Ms. Kilisitina Moala Tuaimei’api, Project Coordinator for Tonga Sustainable Economic Corridors and Urban Resilience Project (Tonga SECURE Project), Ana Bing Fonua.
In a recent media briefing, PM Hon. Dr 'Aisake Eke noted that the groundbreaking for the project will take place on 28 October 2025, and will be attended by the King.
