MINISTER of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, believes Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo may have “ulterior motives” regarding the new Demerera Harbour Bridge.

Earlier this week, Jagdeo said that more information is needed from the government regarding the structure which is expected to be built in 2018 and which will link Houston on East Bank Demerara with Versailles on the West Bank of the river.

Patterson noted at a press conference on Thursday that the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) provided the Opposition with all the relevant documents regarding the bridge several months ago.

He said the Opposition may be fearful of seeing the project being undertaken in a fair manner unlike projects which were undertaken by the previous government such as the problematic Skeldon sugar factory.

Patterson noted that Jagdeo may want the government to reconsider the placement of the bridge, to shift the structure south of the planned area. He said that shift would see the bridge landing in the yard of one of Jagdeo’s friends.

He explained that in the 2018 budget, allocations are expected to be made for the construction of the bridge, noting that the monies which will be requested through the Ministry of Finance would include funding for 11 kilometers, as well as funds for any acquisition of property.

As regards implications for properties on both sides of the river, Patterson told reporters that the MPI has met with the neighbourhoods, as well as with business owners in the area.

He said that there are two or three houses which “are in the way” and he explained that the owners of those homes may have to reconsider living close to the high-speed bridge.

He added that the ministry has not started any negotiations with the owners of the properties in the area.

Patterson said the Houston Nursery School located on the eastern end of the roadway may have to be relocated further north of its current position, considering the traffic and noise that may affect the school.

“The only person who is worried is the Leader of the Opposition,” Patterson said, noting that Jagdeo is “afraid” to see the project being undertaken in a transparent manner.

A three-lane design has been proposed for the new bridge. The design will see the structure being of a low-level with a moveable part.

According to a feasibility study undertaken by Dutch firm, LievenseCSO, the structure provides the most socio-economic benefits for Guyana and led to the lowest urban environmental impact.