Historic Steel Arch Bridge to transform Momase Connectivity

The Hawaiin Bridge, rising along the Coastal Highway that links Wewak to Aitape, Vanimo, and onward to the Indonesian border at Wutung, is set to become a landmark in Papua New Guinea’s infrastructure development. At 66 meters long, dual-lane, and built without a centre pier, it is the first steel arch bridge ever constructed in Papua New Guinea, marking a significant leap in engineering technology for the nation.

Funded entirely by the national government under the ConnectPNG Program, the project carries a price tag of K20.8million. Construction is being led by Covec PNG Limited, with AG Investment Ltd engaged as a sub-contractor. The bridge is scheduled for completion on 6 July 2026, a date that will mark a new chapter in the country’s road network.

The Hawaiin Bridge is more than a technical achievement – it is a lifeline. The old structure has already been the site of accidents and fatalities, underscoring the urgency of finishing the project. Once completed, it will provide safer passage for thousands of travellers, reduce risks for commuters, and serve as a vital artery for trade and economic activity in the greater Sepik Region.

The bridge’s strategic location along the Coastal Highway means it will directly benefit communities from Wewak through Aitape and Vanimo, extending connectivity to the Wutung Border Post with Indonesia. This improved link is expected to boost cross-border commerce, tourism, and regional development, while also strengthening national unity by tying remote communities more closely into the country’s economic mainstream.

The Hawaiin Bridge is not just another piece of infrastructure – it is a legacy project. By introducing steel arch technology to Papua New Guinea, it sets a precedent for future designs and demonstrates the government’s commitment to modernising the nation’s transport system. The absence of a centre pier allows smoother traffic flow and greater resilience against flooding, making it a model for future bridge construction across the country.

The ConnectPNG Program, under which the bridge is funded, continues to drive transformative projects nationwide, aiming to open up rural areas, stimulate economic growth, and improve access to essential services. For the people of Sepik, the Hawaiin Bridge represents hope, progress, and a safer future.

As the July 2026 completion date approaches, anticipation is building. The Hawaiin Bridge will stand not only as a feat of engineering but also as a symbol of resilience and development – connecting communities, saving lives, and enabling prosperity for generations to come.