CONSTRUCTION works on the ‘Blacka Bridge’ at ‘B’ Field, Sophia, Georgetown, are 75 per cent complete, and contractors are working assiduously to complete all remaining works by the end of this month.

According to a representative of Modern Construction and Trucking Services, the contracting firm undertaking the $50 million project, contractors are erecting the railings, which will be completed by this weekend.

Meanwhile, the remaining works include building a ramp, capping the structure and painting.

In December 2022, the Ministry of Public Works signed a contract with Modern Construction and Trucking Services for the emergency construction of an improved ‘B’ Field, Sophia bridge (Blacka Bridge).

The construction was expected to span three months. However, this was delayed due to inclement weather.

The contract was inked following community visits by government ministers. Residents were promised a brand-new concrete structure to ease traffic flow and ensure their safety, a commitment being fulfilled.

Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister with Responsibility for Public Affairs, Kwame McCoy, who was present at the signing, reassured residents of the government’s continued commitment to delivering quality service to all residents of Guyana.

“This is demonstrative of your government working for all the people. Whether you reside in Sophia, Enmore, Buxton… in any community, we are for all the people, in every country across the region. And as we move forward as a government, we look forward to your partnership in making these things happen. Because the representation from the community was important in bringing us to this point where we are actualising emergency works on this bridge… So, you have to continue to work with us as a government, because we want to continue working with you,” he said.

Residents had expressed gratitude for the swift action by the government, as the previous government neglected the bridge’s rehabilitation.

The ‘B’ Field access road has also been identified as a priority road for rehabilitation.

A temporary bridge for civilians has been erected as construction is ongoing.