Public infrastructure remains a central pillar of Government’s development agenda for 2026, with major investments planned across transport, sea and river defence, and connectivity aimed at supporting economic growth, improving mobility and strengthening climate resilience.

A significant portion of spending is allocated for transport infrastructure, with $196.1 billion dedicated to expanding and modernising roads and bridges, including new highways and major river crossings.

This is according to Senior Minister in the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh.

“Our vision for transport infrastructure includes the completion of the Linden to Lethem corridor, inclusive of a bridge at the Kurupukari crossing, with onward road linkage to the new deep-water port in Berbice via a modern, four-lane, high-span bridge across the Berbice River. At the same time, the old Demerara Harbour Bridge will be dismantled and reconstructed to facilitate the Timehri to Sand Hills crossing and connecting the Islands of Leguan and Wakenaam. Several other major highways and farm to market access roads are also slated for construction or upgrade,” Dr Singh said.

In aviation, modernisation of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport continues, alongside developments for new municipal airports in Rose Hall/Canje and Lethem, and upgrades to hinterland airstrips aimed at improving access to remote communities and supporting tourism, trade, and emergency services.

Preparatory works commenced last year on the new 150,000 square foot terminal building for CJIA, and Dr Singh has noted that this project is slated to be completed by the first quarter of 2028. In 2026, $3.2 billion is allocated to advance works on this project.

River transport is undergoing significant transformation with investments allocated for new ferry vessels, port upgrades, dredging, and navigation improvements. 

Key projects include the Parika Ferry Stelling development and dredging at the Demerara River’s mouth to enhance shipping efficiency and safety. 

The government is also strengthening sea and river defences to combat climate change and coastal erosion, with plans for new sea defenses, mangrove restoration, and drainage works in various coastal communities to safeguard livelihoods and infrastructure.

Complementing these large-scale projects are continued investments in community and hinterland infrastructure, including internal roads, drainage, bridges and access routes that support daily life and productive activities in mining, forestry and agriculture.

Together, these public infrastructure initiatives are intended to improve connectivity between regions, reduce travel times, expand economic opportunities and enhance resilience as Guyana continues its rapid development.