Rome, Italy — Italy has officially approved a €13.5 billion (US$15.6 billion) infrastructure project to construct what will become the world’s longest suspension bridge, linking the island of Sicily to the mainland across the Strait of Messina.
The long-debated and politically symbolic project, which has faced decades of postponements, now moves forward under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government. The bridge will stretch approximately 3.6 kilometers (2.2 miles) and is designed to withstand earthquakes, powerful winds, and heavy maritime traffic.
Supporters say the bridge will revolutionize transport between Sicily and the rest of Italy by cutting travel times, boosting tourism, and integrating regional economies. “This is not just a bridge — it’s a sign of Italy’s ambition,” Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini said, calling the approval “a historic day.”
The structure is expected to carry both road and rail traffic, connecting the city of Messina in Sicily to Villa San Giovanni in Calabria.
Engineers from major Italian and international firms are set to be involved in the complex design and construction, which will include cutting-edge seismic technology. If completed as planned, it would surpass Japan’s Akashi Kaikyō Bridge in total span and redefine the limits of suspension bridge engineering.
Critics, however, remain concerned over the project’s environmental impact, high costs, and potential for delays or corruption. Several opposition groups have vowed to monitor developments closely.
Construction is expected to begin in 2025, with a completion target in the early 2030s.
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