Pacific Magazine > Magazine > April 17, 2007

Pacific Archives

30 Years Ago In Pacific Magazine

Pacific Archives

The flapping flags, scuttling boats and brilliant sunlight dancing on the sea gave it the appearance of a gala regatta. The camera bedecked crowds, sky-rockets and balloons added to the festive carnival air.The excitement was appropriate for the “Grand Opening and Dedication of the Koror-Babeldaob Bridge.”
And with good reason!

The 1,264-foot span, a vital link in Palau’s development plans, had been completed by Socio Construction Company in 22 months, two months ahead of schedule.

A host of government officials and Socio executives joined Palauan leaders and several hundred residents and guests for the April 24 christening of the rainbow arch structure.

For one wondrous hour the two land roadway became a vast open-air ballroom. Promenaders examined the length and breadth of the span, snapping pictures and taking in the new vistas. Smiling, waving officials were chauffeured across and back.
One middle-aged Palauan remarked that his parents had vowed never to use the bridge because it was too high and too long. While some may share that feeling, it was obvious that others do not. As the crowds dispersed and the clean-up crew took over, a steady flow of commuters rolled across the bridge in both directions.

Editor’s Note: The Koror-Babeldaob Bridge collapsed in September 1996, killing two people and injuring four others. The catastrophic failure occurred shortly after the bridge had been strengthened to counteract a sagging center. What remained of the original structure was demolished. It was replaced by a new bridge built with foreign aid from Japan. The “Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge” opened in 2001.