The process to select a contractor for the highly anticipated new Berbice River Bridge remains underway, with government officials confirming that bids from five international firms are still being evaluated. The new fixed, four-lane concrete bridge is set to replace the aging 1.57-kilometre floating steel structure that currently links Regions Five and Six, a vital artery for commerce and daily travel.
Seven companies were pre-qualified from an initial pool of nine, and were invited to submit price proposals for the major infrastructure project. Of these, five firms responded, putting forward financial proposals that range from just over US$205 million to nearly US$466 million. Notable bidders include joint ventures led by China Railway Construction Caribbean Company Limited, AJM Enterprise with Shandong High-Speed Road & Bridge Company Limited, and China Railway First Group Company Limited. China Road & Bridge Corporation and Vishwa Samooja Private Limited of India also submitted bids.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill stated that the evaluation process is ongoing, with no preferred bidder selected yet. The government has emphasized there is no rush to commence construction, especially with general and regional elections scheduled for later this year. Even after a contract is awarded, officials note that several weeks or months will be required for negotiations and financial arrangements before construction can begin.
The new bridge will be a modern fixed-span structure, eliminating the need for retractions and ensuring continuous traffic flow for both marine and vehicular transportation. This upgrade is expected to support the ongoing economic expansion in Region Six and beyond. To facilitate the project, the government has already acquired around 50 properties on the eastern side of the Berbice River.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali has assured that the new Berbice River Bridge will be constructed to the same modern standards as the new Demerara River Bridge, which is currently under construction. Approximately $5 billion has been allocated in the 2025 national budget for the Berbice project, and the administration has committed to making crossings at the country’s three major bridges free of charge from August 1, 2025.
While the government remains committed to the project, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo has indicated that it is unlikely construction will begin before the upcoming elections. He reiterated that the bridge will be completed in the next term of office, underscoring the administration’s long-term vision for Guyana’s infrastructure development.
The current floating Berbice River Bridge, opened in 2008, has served the region for nearly two decades but is now considered inadequate for the growing demands of modern transportation and commerce. The new bridge, once completed, will mark a significant milestone in Guyana’s drive to modernize its infrastructure and enhance connectivity across the country.
