Parsons and Tekfen Engineering JV awarded contract for Turkey’s suspension bridge

Parsons and Tekfen Engineering have secured a contract from the Turkish General Directorate of Highways (KGM) to support the construction of the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge Malkara-Çanakkale Motorway.

The $2.8bn, 2,023m-long suspension bridge will be built 200km from Istanbul, spanning the Dardanelles Strait, which connects the Lapseki district to the Gelibolu district (Gallipoli) bridge.

As per the terms of the contract, the joint venture will offer engineering consultancy, construction support, and construction supervision / inspection services.

Parsons will also provide technology transfer to KGM staff for the design and construction of suspension bridges.

Parsons vice-president and suspension bridge lead engineer Ken Serzan said: “We’re proud to be a part of this landmark project.

“Our strong performance and reputation for delivering complex long-span bridges, combined with our technical strength worldwide, help us to achieve overall value for our customers.”

Upon its completion in 2023, the 1915 Çanakkale Bridge will become world’s longest suspension bridge.

The Turkish Government expects that the new bridge will help transform the region into a tourist destination, as well as provide access to the historical city of Troy.

The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge is also expected to improve trade between Turkey and Asia.