The new Jinan Yellow River Bridge and the Qilu Yellow River Bridge opened to traffic on Nov 23, paving the way for expanded urban development and unlocking the growth potential of the north bank of the Yellow River within the city.

According to Yang Feng, deputy Party secretary and general manager of Jinan Urban Construction Group, the new Jinan Yellow River Bridge serves as a critical north-south artery connecting the city's new development zone with its older urban areas, while the Qilu bridge project plays a crucial role as a key cross-river corridor for Jinan's western urban area.

With Jinan's newly enhanced cross-Yellow River network, transportation between the urban area and the Jinan Innovation Zone has been significantly improved, fostering development along the Yellow River.

"The new bridge offers a smooth driving experience, and I no longer have to worry about traffic congestion. Many of the employees live in the urban area, so commuting to work will be much more convenient moving forward," said Zhang Xudong, executive general manager of Shandong Wensheng Glass Technology Co, which is located in the Jinan Innovation Zone.

The development of Jinan's urban sub-center demonstration area on the north bank of the Yellow River is already in full swing, incorporating economic, cultural, and scientific functions.

The two bridges will facilitate connectivity between the Jinan Start-up Area for Growth Drivers Transformation and areas in the central urban region of Jinan to the south, while also linking Jiyang district and Shanghe county to the north, said Zheng Zhaoyu, director of the construction and management department of the Jinan Start-up Area for Growth Drivers Transformation.

The new Jinan Yellow River Bridge opens to traffic on Nov 23. [Photo/Jinan Daily]