More than three years after being destroyed by flood waters associated with the passage of Tropical Storm Gustav in 2008, the Westmoreland Bridge in Georgia, St. Mary is being replaced. The structure is being replaced under the Jamaica Development Infrastructure Programme (JDIP), at a cost of just under US14 million dollars.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Transport, Works and Housing, Richard Azan says the project which started during the first week of March 2012, will be completed in 18 months. The bridge will be 180 meters long, equipped with sidewalks and will sit on five piers and two abutments. The new bridge will be one of the longest on the island.
Minister Azan says that while the project is being undertaken outside of an area where impact on people will be minimized, a community engagement plan has been developed.
The Westmoreland Bridge is the major link between the community of Georgia and areas such as Richmond and Highgate. Due to the absence of the structure, residents have been forced to travel up to 20 kilometers more in order to access these communities.
Minister Azan says that both the contractor, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) Limited and the National Works Agency (NWA) have been advised to ensure that all guidelines relating to the delivery of the project are strictly followed. These include environmental and safety guidelines.
