AN ASSESSMENT OF THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE FLYOVER CONSTRUCTION AT CENTRAL MARKET AND WUNTI, BAUCHI STATE

Abstract This study examines the socio-economic and transport-related impacts of a newly constructed flyover in Bauchi metropolis, with emphasis on residents and business owners located within the surrounding corridor. The demographic results showed that 68% of respondents were male and 32% female, with the largest age group being those aged 26–35 years (36.5%). Most respondents were business owners (35.5%) and transport operators (26%), while 43% possessed tertiary education. Spatially, 39% of participants lived or operated within 1 km of the flyover. The findings revealed significant socio-economic disruptions during construction. A total of 54% reported a decline in customer traffic, 64.5% indicated a slowdown in commercial activities, and 80.5% experienced transportation disruptions. Additionally, 68.5% acknowledged experiencing inconvenience or financial loss, while 61% believed that government support during the construction phase was inadequate. Post-construction outcomes were largely positive. About 78.5% of respondents observed increased customer access to businesses, 72.5% reported improved travel time, and 76% agreed that traffic congestion reduced. Similarly, 64% indicated increased business revenue, 67% observed rising property values near the flyover, and 81.5% reported an increase in new business investments within the area. However, 67.5% disagreed that transportation costs decreased, suggesting that external factors such as fuel price and inflation, rather than road conditions, determined transport fares. The outcomes underscore the need for improved mitigation strategies during major infrastructure projects to minimize disruption, while also highlighting the developmental gains such interventions can produce for metropolitan areas. It recommends enhanced stakeholder participation, effective compensation mechanisms, and transparent communication throughout the project cycle. Furthermore, government agencies should integrate social impact mitigation strategies and post-construction maintenance programsto sustain long-termbenefits. The findings underscore that infrastructural projects like the Bauchi flyover are crucial for fostering urban connectivity, promoting economic productivity, and improving the overall quality of life in Nigerian cities.