By Shawnette Fiedtkou
Residents of Linden, Region 10, have welcomed the recent announcement by President Irfaan Ali that the new Wismar/McKenzie Bridge will be toll-free once it becomes operational in 2026.
The $35 million US dollar project, set to begin construction soon, will deliver a four-lane bridge aimed at improving connectivity between the Wismar and McKenzie areas.
The announcement has sparked enthusiasm among residents, particularly drivers, who believe that the toll-free plan will significantly benefit commuters and local businesses.
Edward Neblette, a driver operating in the area, expressed his approval, stating that he feels “very good” about the decision.
Fellow driver Kenny Adams added that it “makes sense” and called it a “very good thing.”
Dennis Niles, another driver, emphasized that the toll-free bridge would be beneficial for both the daily commuters and the workers involved in the project.
The new bridge, a 220-metre-long precast concrete structure equipped with modern safety features such as lighting, will be constructed by China Railway Construction (Caribbean) under a contract signed earlier this year.
It is expected to enhance efficiency and strengthen trade between Guyana and Brazil, furthering regional development.