VietNamNet Bridge – A World Bank-funded priority investment project on upgrade of urban and environment infrastructure in central Da Nang City commenced on Feb. 11.

The 218 million USD project receives 152.4 million USD from the WB under a credit agreement signed last August between the WB and the State Bank of Vietnam, which became effective on Nov. 25, 2008 after receiving the State President’s approval.

The two-phase project, scheduled to complete in June, 2013, aims to improve the efficiency and sustainability of urban services in Da Nang, including urban area upgrading, environmental infrastructure improvement and strategic road access construction in selected areas.

In its first phase from 2008-2010, the project will upgrade infrastructure of four low income urban areas, build three resettlement quarters, improve environment on the Phu Loc river, build drainage systems, set up a small credit fund for house upgrade and build a 9 km road.

The second phase will bring improved infrastructure to the city’s remaining 10 low income urban areas. A waste water treatment station, a pumping station, and drainage and water supply systems will be built. The project will also build a 5 km road and a bridge in the south of the city.

VietNamNet/VNA