Reduction of Machang Bridge Toll Fees, Both Gyeongnam Governor and Changwon Mayor Candidates 'Agree'

The Citizens' Movement Headquarters for the Reduction of Toll Fees on Machang Bridge in Changwon-si, Gyeongnam, and for Public Interest Measures has disclosed the positions of local election candidates regarding the reduction of Machang Bridge toll fees. / Photo by Se-ryeong Lee ryeong@

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Lee Seryeong] It has been revealed that the majority of candidates for the Governor of Gyeongnam Province and the Mayor of Changwon City in the nationwide local elections this June agree on the reduction of toll fees for the Machang Bridge in Changwon City, Gyeongnam.

The Citizens' Movement Headquarters for the Reduction of Machang Bridge Toll Fees and the Promotion of Public Interest Disposition stated at a press conference on the 26th that all candidates except independent Gyeongnam Governor candidate Choi Jin-seok, who did not express an opinion, are positive about reducing the Machang Bridge toll fees.

According to the Citizens' Movement Headquarters, Gyeongnam Governor candidates Yang Moon-seok and Yeo Young-guk and Changwon Mayor candidate Heo Seong-mu are pushing for toll fee reductions, while Gyeongnam Governor candidate Park Wan-su and Changwon Mayor candidate Hong Nam-pyo expressed their agreement.

The toll reduction plans varied, including financial investment, project restructuring, and financial sharing, but all showed support for lowering the toll fees.

Regarding the public interest disposition, where local governments cancel the management and operation rights of private investors if necessary for public interest, five candidates expressed agreement, while candidate Choi did not respond.

The candidates agreed in principle but expressed opinions that preconditions such as legal disputes or concerns about local fiscal burdens exist, and that long-term progress is necessary.

The Citizens' Movement Headquarters said, "We hope the Machang Bridge toll, which is the most expensive in the country, will be reduced," and added, "We hope candidates will take the lead in resolving this issue in the local elections."

Machang Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge connecting Gapo-dong, Masanhappo-gu, and Gwisan-dong, Seongsan-gu, Changwon City, Gyeongnam. It is 1.7 km long, 21 m wide, and has four lanes for two-way traffic.

Construction began in April 2004 by the private investor Machang Bridge Co., Ltd., and after completion on June 24, 2008, it officially opened on July 1, 2008, with toll collection starting on July 15 of the same month.