Portland bridge to be built

The construction of a new Bailey bridge in Prospect, East Portland, is to commence after parts needed to start the construction arrived last week.

The bridge parts, which were transported by two flatbed trucks that took two trips each last Tuesday morning to the site of the old bridge, resulted in a gathering of residents who have been anxisously awaiting the start of the construction. The new bridge will allow them easier access to adjoining communities such as Cross Roads, David Lane, Boys Town, John’s Town, and Land Settlement.

“This is long overdue and we have suffered many inconvenience,“ commented Marlene Heslop, a resident from Cross Roads.

“Since the bridge was ordered closed, we have been forced to travel a longer distance to get in and out of our communities, and even taxi drivers have increased their fares. Today, I am really happy that parts for a new bridge have arrived; and it doesn’t matter who sourced it, the important thing is we are getting a new bridge, which is long overdue, “she added.

Mayor of Port Antonio Paul Thompson expressed relief. He said the new bridge will ease the plight faced by residents.

“I am happy that the cries of the people are being met; this is what quality representation is all about, “ said Thompson.

GRATEFUL RESIDENTS

“It has been a difficult period for all the residents, but I can see the smiles on many faces and I am sure that despite the long wait, they are indeed grateful that the bridge has arrived at last. The actual construction will begin in a few days time,” he said.

Councillor for the area, Wayne McKenzie, who also witnessed the arrival of the bridge parts, pointed out that the past three years have been difficult for residents, who lost the use of the bridge after it was ordered closed by the National Works Agency in 2015.

“The structure, especially the underneath of the bridge, was falling apart and was deemed unsafe for trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles, “said McKenzie.

He added: “As the structure worsened, it was officially closed shortly after, but today, despite the long wait, it is here. For almost three years, I lobbied repeatedly for assistance in getting a new bridge. I am happy today that the people will have the full use of a new bridge.”