With the Wismar/Mackenzie Bridge on track to become fully operational by June, construction is progressing steadily, with works now 95.4 per cent complete.
According to an update from the Ministry of Public Works on Tuesday, 95 per cent of the concrete has been placed on the 220-metre-long precast structure.
Additionally, 60 per cent of the box culverts on both sides of the bridge have been completed.
These reinforced rectangular concrete structures are designed to provide durable, high-capacity channels for drainage, water management and utility passage beneath infrastructure.
The state-of-the-art structure, being constructed by China Railway Construction (Caribbean) Co Ltd, is expected to significantly improve connectivity in Linden by facilitating smoother traffic flow between the Mackenzie and Wismar communities.
To complement the bridge, two access roads and roundabouts are being developed, while the connecting roadways will be expanded into four lanes.
The upgraded road network will feature a geo-carriageway, median and traffic islands aimed at enhancing road safety and easing traffic congestion.
Roundabouts are also being installed on both sides of the bridge to connect it seamlessly to the Linden–Mabura Road and the wider highway network.
The project forms part of the broader upgrades planned for the region, including upgrades along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway.
Meanwhile, the ministry reported that there were zero incidents or accidents recorded at the eastern laydown yard, trestle bridge and west bank construction sites.
Relocation works by the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) on both the eastern and western banks have also been completed.
Upon completion, the bridge is expected to deliver long-term economic, social and environmental benefits by easing travel for residents and improving the movement of people and goods in and out of Linden.
At the same time, other major bridge initiatives are advancing across Guyana.
These include the proposed Kurupukari Bridge across the Essequibo River, which is expected to replace the current pontoon crossing.
Sections of the old Demerara Harbour Bridge are also being repurposed to create additional transportation links, including the Timehri Sandhills-to-Bartica corridor, where geotechnical studies have already been completed.
Similar infrastructure works are expected to support connectivity between Leguan and Wakenaam, while an active task force continues to finalise designs and advance the projects.
Plans for a new Berbice River Bridge are also progressing, with negotiations and financing discussions currently ongoing.
DPI
