GOVERNMENT will soon re-launch a new Expression of Interest (EoI) for the New Demerara River Crossing.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure has budgeted $100 million for consultancy services for the new Demerara River Crossing.

Government’s provision in the budget was questioned by Opposition Member of Parliament Juan Edghill, who queried if the consultancy services included a new feasibility study.
Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson, however, clarified that the sum does not provide for a new feasibility study but it includes the hiring of technical experts who will review previous proposals and give advice.

“We will be re-launching the EoI based on these requirements, a high-level bridge with a minimum of four lanes and navigational clearance among others,” said the minister, adding that the allocation covers the procurement of services for technical expertise in the fields of engineering, finance and the environment.

He said the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) will also serve as a consultant and advise the government on public procurement process.

Last November, 11 companies submitted bids, with Chinese companies dominating the bidding. Following the evaluation of the tenders, the Public Infrastructure Ministry had said that three companies will be shortlisted to bid for the project soon after.

According to a Stabroek News report, in February of this year, project manager Rawlston Adams said the evaluation of tenders had proven more complex than planned and it was for that reason the deadline for the completion of the process had been extended.
Minister Patterson, however, indicated that the 11 companies which originally bid for the project will be included in the new bidding process along with any other company.
Government anticipated that the project will be started this year and be completed by 2020.