Italy cleared the way Wednesday to build the world’s largest suspension bridge linking the Italian mainland with Sicily in a massive 13.5 billion euro ($15.5 billion) infrastructure project that has been long delayed by debates over its scale, earthquake threats, environmental impact and the spectre of mafia interference.

Italy on Wednesday cleared way for the construction of the world’s longest suspension bridge, linking the mainland to Sicily, as part of a €13.5 billion ($15.5 billion) project.The move marks Italy's effort to strengthen Italy’s southern infrastructure and align the project with broader security goals following pressure from US President Donald

Italy's government gave final approval on Wednesday to the construction of what will be the world's longest single-span bridge, linking Sicily to the mainland, despite environmental, financial and other concerns that have delayed it for decades.