FOLLOWING a series of rigorous load assessments done on the new Demerara River Bridge, findings have confirmed that the infrastructure exhibits satisfactory stiffness and adequate reserve load-carrying capacity.

The load testing was conducted on the new Demerara River Bridge on September 15, 16, and 25, 2025 and included both the east and west approach bridges as well as the main cable-stayed span.

Twenty 40-ton fully loaded trucks were utilised to complete eight distinct loading scenarios.

The testing programme was independently witnessed by the Ministry of Public Works of Guyana and Politecnica of Italy. The procedures were carried out in accordance with established protocols, and the results are considered valid and reliable.

Findings demonstrate that the bridge meets the design requirements for stiffness, load-carrying capacity and cable performance.

The load testing followed strict international standards set by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), he said.

The Sunday Chronicle had previously reported that the bridge had undergone a series of successful load tests and, according to Project Manager Patrick Thompson, the results “were better than design requirements.”

Guyana’s transportation infrastructure will be further boosted when the bridge is officially opened to the public.

With the bridge now entering its final stages of preparation, the President reiterated confidence that the long-awaited structure will be opened to the public well before September ends.

The US$260 million bridge being constructed by China Railway Construction Corporation Limited will have a lifespan of 100 years and will offer toll-free access.

It will operate around the clock and accommodate vehicles of all sizes and weights, with a maximum speed limit of 80 kilometres per hour.

The new bridge features four lanes and stretches 2.6 kilometres, linking Region Three to Region Four

More than 50,000 daily commuters are expected to benefit from the new toll-free bridge, resulting in an estimated $3.5 billion in annual savings.