A
alexk
Guest
The historic Godineau Bridge built in the 1930’s will remain standing even after the Government opens two segments of the $7.4 billion Solomon Hochoy Highway Extension project today.
The two segments named Package 2-A which stretches from Dumfries Road to Mosquito Creek and Package 2-B from Godineau River Bridge to St Mary’s in Oropouche, are part of the second phase of the highway which links La Romaine to Oropouche. The first phase, a dual carriageway from Golconda to Debe has already been completed but the third phase from Debe to Mon Desir, which was the subject of litigation levelled by the Highway Re-route Movement, remains at a standstill.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, along with Works Minister Rohan Sinanan, National Infrastructure Development Company (Nidco) president Esther Farmer and Vice-president Steve Garibsingh.
In an interview yesterday, Garibsingh said when the two segments being opened today will allow motorists to experience a decline in travelling time.
Asked whether the historic Godineau Bridge will be dismantled, Garibsingh said no. He explained that the bridge will continue to be in use.
“We decided that the bridge will continue to remain in service to facilitate the cremation site (Shore of Peace) for people who are using the foreshore for recreation,” Garibsingh said.
Asked to give an update on the third and fourth phases of the highway which has not started as promised by the Government, Garibsingh said this was being discussed at the level of Cabinet. He also said that having the newly-opened four lanes will offer safer travelling to motorists.
This week Junior Sammy contractors were seen removing their equipment from the construction site, having completed the segments. Under the former People’s Partnership, extensive work was done to fortify the Godineau Bridge which remains one of the few pieces of colonial infrastructure which is still in use.
OTHER PROJECTS ON STREAM
• Curepe Interchange
• Moruga Road Rehabilitation Project
• Churchill Roosevelt Highway Extension to Manzanilla
• Valencia to Toco Highway
• Maracas Beach Facilities Improvement Project
• Fast Ferry Port in Toco
• Diego Martin Highway/Western Main Road
• Port-of-Spain East-West Corridor Improvement Project