Government of Pará delivers new cable-stayed bridge between Icoaraci and Outeiro, in Belém
A landmark of modernity and integration for the Metropolitan Region of Belém, the structure is essential for mobility and benefits around 400,000 people
The Government of Pará delivered this Saturday (18) the new Pastor Firmino Gouveia cable-stayed bridge, which connects the districts of Icoaraci and Outeiro, representing a landmark of modernity, integration, and urban development for the Metropolitan Region of Belém. The work ensures a safe and permanent connection between the two districts of the capital, replacing the traditional river crossing and significantly improving mobility and the quality of life of the population.
During the delivery ceremony, Governor Helder Barbalho; Vice Governor Hanna Ghassan; Minister of Cities, Jader Filho; Mayor of Belém, Igor Normando; the State's First Lady, Daniela Barbalho, and other state and municipal authorities were present.
“After more than 40 years, the Island of Outeiro and the district of Icoaraci gain a new means of interconnection, with a work that guarantees better mobility, accessibility, and safety. The construction of this bridge structures the future and benefits around 400,000 people, in addition to boosting tourism, businesses, and leisure in the region,” emphasized Governor Helder Barbalho.
With a length of 507 meters and a width of 10.5 meters, the bridge follows the most modern engineering standards, combining aesthetics, safety, and durability. Supported by steel cables (stays) connected to a central mast, the structure was designed to ensure smooth traffic flow and resistance over the years, establishing itself as a new postcard of the capital of Pará.
Economy and tourism - According to the State Secretary of Infrastructure and Logistics, Adler Silveira, the impact of the work goes beyond mobility. “More than just a major infrastructure project, the new 'Pastor Firmino Gouveia' bridge is a vector for economic and tourism growth. The ease of access will boost local commerce, increase property values, and enhance the flow of visitors to the beaches and natural attractions of Outeiro, in addition to strengthening the economy of Icoaraci, recognized for its artisan and gastronomic hub,” he stated.
During its execution, the work generated 120 direct jobs and about 200 indirect jobs, stimulating the local economy and benefiting workers from various sectors. The expectation is that the investment will continue to promote income generation and opportunities, expanding the sustainable development of the region.
Ester Gouveia, widow of Pastor Firmino Gouveia — an important leader of the Assembly of God who passed away on August 5 of this year at the age of 100 — thanked for the recognition of her husband with the naming of the bridge. “We are very grateful to our governor for this tribute. If Pastor Firmino were alive, he would be very moved at this moment. This bridge will help the lives of many residents. Our family thanks you for this beautiful tribute to Pastor Firmino,” she declared.
Cook Minéia Cristina dos Santos, a resident of Icoaraci for 30 years and owner of a restaurant in the district, emphasized the importance of the new connection. “When I arrived here, there was only a ferry; it was very difficult to cross. Then came the first bridge, and now, with this new one, our lives will improve a lot. I can only thank the government for looking out for us,” she emphasized.
