by Samuel Gillis
The Guyanese government has inked a ‘design and build’ contract for the East Bank Demerara Road Improvement Works, spanning from Good Success to Timehri.
Financed through a loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), this project aims to enhance transportation infrastructure in the region.
Under the agreement, approximately 23.7 kilometers of roadway will be constructed, incorporating upgraded two-lane roads, sidewalks, cycle lanes, and concrete drains.
These enhancements prioritize the safety of vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
China Road and Bridge Corporation will undertake the construction works, with Public Works Minister Juan Edghill emphasizing the importance of adhering to contractual obligations.
Minister Edghill has warned against any deviation from agreed-upon terms and signaled a zero-tolerance policy towards contractors altering project specifications to inflate costs.
Supervision of the project implementation will be carried out by Sheladia Associates INC, a US-based firm, to ensure optimal utilization of funds and adherence to quality standards.
Minister Edghill emphasized the necessity of round-the-clock construction activities to ensure timely completion.
He also urged strict compliance with traffic advisories, warning of consequences for violators, including photographic evidence for enforcement purposes.
The contract spans a duration of 36 months, with the government committed to delivering improved road infrastructure to enhance connectivity and safety for all road users.