A Bridge to Sicily
Posted by Hans Ericsson | Under Current Traveling News Monday Mar 9, 2009Recently, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi announced plans to construct a suspension bridge that will connect Sicily to mainland Italy over the Strait of Messina. The cost of the bridge is slated at 6.1 billion Euro. Mr. Berlusconi has been in favor of building this bridge for some time, and said he will donate 1.3 billion Euro of his own money for the project. If completed, it would be the largest suspension bridge in the world, at 3.3 km long and 60 m wide. The bridge would be supported by two massive pillars, each over a thousand feet tall. There would be six lanes for cars, a railway that could handle around 200 trains a day and two pedestrian walkways. Currently the only way to get to Sicily is by taking one of the many ferries or flights that currently service the Island.
The idea of building a bridge across the Strait of Messina has been around for thousands of years, as the ancient Romans had discussed building a flotation bridge. Since then, many architects and engineers have discussed the idea of designing tunnels and bridges for various leaders and administrations, but construction was never as close to starting as it is now.
There is currently a debate taking place in Italy about the construction. Supporters of the project see the bridge as a way to create jobs and boost tourism, while opponents worry about the ecological impact, and fear the bridge would be vulnerable to high winds and earthquakes, which the area is prone to.
What are your thoughts? Should there be a bridge to Sicily, or should the Italians continue to use the ferries and planes that have been use until now? Would you want to walk, train, or drive your car rental in Italy over this bridge? Let us know what you think!
I think the bridge would be great for car rentals because most rental companies wont let you take the car on ferries. You have to drop off the car and pick up another one on Sicily or risk having no coverage while on the ferry.
I am pro bridge
A bridge would be a fantastic idea. Its been a while since something big was built in Italy.
I think safety for passengers traveling across this bridge is the most important factor to consider. If they can find a way to safely protect the bridge and all passengers from mother nature then I agree with the construction of this bridge for easier less expensive travel.
This bridge idea seems shakey at best. If the Romans were unable to construct it, however shall modern man complete this herculean task? I say leave well enough alone and allow travelers to continue to use the trusted methods of ferrying and flight. We must practice some humility in our present undertakings. Do not forget when man as a collective community tried to build the Tower of Babel in order to brush the heavens with mortal hands. The outcome was less then successful.