Guyana’s landmark US$260 million New Demerara River Bridge is steadily progressing toward its scheduled August 31, 2025, completion date, marking a transformative milestone for the nation’s infrastructure and regional connectivity. The project, now more than 76% complete, has reached a critical phase with the successful construction of the final bridge tower, P-35, a development celebrated with fireworks and praise from government officials.
Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and Minister within the Ministry Deodat Indar highlighted the achievement as a turning point, emphasizing the strong coordination between government and contractors. Edghill announced that, by June 15, all girders on the eastern side of the bridge will be installed, with those on the western side already in place. The next steps include pouring concrete, applying the asphaltic surface, installing rails, lights, and furnishings—final touches that will bring the project to completion.
The bridge, spanning 2.65 to 2.8 kilometers, will be South America’s first high-span, four-lane, cable-stayed structure, featuring a 23.6-meter driving surface and a dedicated bicycle lane. Its 50-meter fixed-high span will eliminate the need for bridge closures due to marine traffic, ensuring uninterrupted flow for both river and road users. The structure will link Nandy Park on the East Bank of Demerara to La Grange on the West Bank, accommodating vehicles of all sizes and weights, and is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and boost economic activity between Regions Three and Four.
Designed to last at least 100 years, the bridge will also feature a monument bearing the Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH), symbolizing national pride. Once completed, the toll-free crossing is set to stand as a landmark of engineering, diplomacy, and development, reflecting the vision and leadership of the current administration.
