Plan for Cat Lai Bridge to Boost HCMC Connectivity Announced

Photo courtesy of VN Express

Authorities in Dong Nai Province have unveiled plans to construct the Cat Lai Bridge over the Dong Nai River, aiming to enhance connectivity between Ho Chi Minh City and Long Thanh airport. Vice Chairman Ho Van Ha stated that the 4.7 km bridge, estimated to cost VND18 trillion (US$682 million), is set to replace the existing river ferry. The ambitious project is scheduled to start in 2026 with its opening planned for 2028, contingent on completing detailed plans for council approval.

The bridge will span from Nguyen Thi Dinh Street, near the My Thuy interchange, to the Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway. Designed for speeds of up to 80 kph, it will feature eight lanes and a vertical clearance of over 55 meters. Construction Corporation No.1 Joint Stock Company (CC1) proposed several public-private partnership options, with a preference for a build–operate–transfer model.

The project has long been part of regional plans, which were delayed due to funding challenges and disagreements on location. However, the nearing completion of Long Thanh airport, slated to open next year, has increased the project's urgency. The bridge is expected to bolster routes between HCMC and the airport, which is currently served by National Highways 1 and 51 and the HCMC–Long Thanh Expressway.

In addition to Cat Lai Bridge, CC1 aims to develop the Long Hung Bridge, a 11.7-km structure linking HCMC's Ring Road 3 to An Phuoc Commune in Dong Nai. This project's estimated cost is VND11 trillion.

Key Takeaways

• The Cat Lai Bridge aims to improve connectivity between HCMC and Long Thanh airport, starting construction in 2026.
• CC1 proposes a public-private partnership for funding, emphasizing a build–operate–transfer model.
• The bridge's urgency is heightened by the impending completion of Long Thanh airport, set to open next year.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-09-12