Prime Minister Inspects Progress on the Ungheni “Bridge of Flowers” as Construction Moves Forward
Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu visited the construction site of the new Ungheni bridge—popularly referred to as the “Bridge of Flowers”—one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects launched in Moldova in recent decades. Construction began on April 26, 2025, and the total investment value reaches €33 million.
During his visit, the Prime Minister emphasized the symbolic and strategic importance of the project: “The Ungheni bridge is more than an engineering structure. It is a symbolic connection and a strategic investment that will link Moldova with the future A8 highway, integrating us into the European transport network.” He added that works are progressing according to schedule and that the government aims to make the bridge operational by the end of next year.
A modern structure built for future generations
The bridge is designed to span 261 meters and consist of two parallel structures, each featuring two traffic lanes in one direction and sidewalks for pedestrians. Engineers involved in the construction explain that the project utilizes durable materials and state-of-the-art techniques meant to ensure structural integrity for decades.
Currently, progress on the Moldovan side is estimated at 20%, while construction on the Romanian side stands at approximately 25%.
Work progress on the Moldovan side
On Moldova’s bank of the Prut, construction teams have already completed:
-
the two foundation slabs (radiers) for the main abutments;
-
reinforcement and formwork of the abutment elevations;
-
concrete pouring for both traffic flows, completed at 90%;
-
installation of the sheet-pile enclosure for the main pier foundation located four meters below the river level;
-
initial works on exposing and processing the pile heads.
According to engineers, fluctuating water levels and weather conditions have presented challenges, but work remains on schedule.
Advancement on the Romanian side
On the right bank, Romanian contractors are also making visible progress:
-
both abutment foundation slabs are completed;
-
reinforcement, formwork, and concrete pouring of the elevations were finalized for both traffic directions;
-
the sheet-pile enclosure for the pier foundation is already in place;
-
the foundation slab for lane 1 has been fully poured;
-
reinforcement for the slab of lane 2 is 75% complete.
Romania’s Ministry of Transport stated that construction is progressing “precisely according to the technical calendar,” noting excellent cooperation with Moldovan authorities.
The next major milestone: connection to the A8 highway
Once completed, the bridge will enable traffic to move temporarily on the adjacent national roads, but its true regional importance will be realized only after Moldova and Romania finalize the A8 highway. This European corridor will eventually link Ungheni to Iași and Târgu Mureș, creating a modern transport artery between Moldova and the EU.
Prime Minister Munteanu stated: “This bridge represents a gateway to Europe. It will strengthen economic ties, facilitate trade, and ease the movement of citizens.”
A long-awaited project
Residents on both sides of the Prut view the project with optimism. Many consider the bridge a long-delayed promise that will finally materialize after decades of geopolitical and bureaucratic obstacles. Once completed, the Ungheni “Bridge of Flowers” is expected to become a vital crossing point, boosting commerce, mobility, and tourism.
Completion is scheduled for next year. Until then, authorities promise transparency, regular inspections, and sustained effort to ensure the project remains on track.