–includes $73.2B for rehabilitation of community roads across the country; $10.5B for Sheriff Street to Orange Nassau four-lane highway, funds for other major projects

IN a groundbreaking move, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government has earmarked an unprecedented $204.1 billion for the enhancement of roads and bridges across the entire country.

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, unveiled this ambitious investment plan as part of the budget presentation for the year 2024 in the National Assembly on Monday.

Addressing the significant developments in road infrastructure, Dr. Singh highlighted key projects set to receive substantial allocations. Notably, $10.5 billion is allocated to progress the Sheriff Street to Orange Nassau four-lane highway project, which will ultimately connect to the Mahaica River Bridge. Another noteworthy initiative includes the construction of a new four-lane highway from Schoonord to Crane, with an investment of $9 billion, aiming for completion within the first half of the year.

Moreover, a considerable sum of $1.5 billion is dedicated to completing the Parika to Goshen Road project, streamlining movement between the Essequibo River and Demerara River. The ongoing East Bank highway project from Goed Success to Timehri receives a boost with an allocation of $15.5 billion, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing connectivity.

Dr. Singh emphasised the continuation of the Ogle to Eccles road linkage project with a budgeted amount of $10.5 billion. Additionally, $8 billion is designated for the ongoing construction of the Diamond to Busby Dam Road, connecting to the Timehri four-lane highway. Another $10 billion is allocated for the rehabilitation of the Soedyke-Linden Highway, commencing this year.

In the realm of community road construction, the government’s commitment is evident. Dr. Singh reported an expenditure of $60.7 billion in 2023, and a substantial budget of $73.2 billion is allocated for the rehabilitation of community roads across all 10 administrative regions in 2024. Simultaneously, hinterland roads receive attention, with a budget of $5.5 billion dedicated to their enhancement.

Dr. Singh detailed significant advancements in bridges and waterways, showcasing the government’s vision for robust infrastructure. Works have commenced on upgrading the Corentyne Highway into a four-lane highway, accompanied by the reconstruction of 99 structures. Additionally, the procurement process for the new Corentyne River Bridge advanced in 2023, with construction expected to commence in 2024.

Exploring options for the Berbice River Bridge, the government is considering upgrading it into a four-lane high-span bridge, with works already underway. A substantial budget of $19.7 billion is allocated for advancing the construction of the New Demerara River Bridge, while $4.2 billion is earmarked for the construction of the New Wismar four-lane bridge.

Addressing statements from the opposition, Dr. Singh emphasised the government’s commitment to Linden, stating, “They didn’t even build a bicycle bridge at Wismar, they claim to love the people of Linden.”

In a holistic approach, the senior finance minister assured the implementation of robust road safety and traffic-management plans. Leveraging ICT solutions, these initiatives aim to alleviate traffic woes and enhance overall safety on the nation’s roadways.

The monumental investment in roads and bridges signifies a pivotal step towards improved connectivity, infrastructure, and economic growth under the PPP/C government’s strategic vision.