US$75.8 million East Bank Demerara Road improvement project to start in August

Georgetown, Guyana: The infrastructural work on the highly anticipated US$75.8 million East Bank Demerara Road improvement project is all set to commence in August. This initiative aimed to play a crucial role in developing climate-resilient infrastructure in order to provide enhanced transportation efficiency and foster safety for all road users.

The project is being funded by Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in Guyana which is expected to be complete within a period of 36 months. It is undertaken by China Road and Bridge Corporation which aims to reduce traffic congestion and facilitate vital routes for the efficient transportation.

As per the Ministry of Public Works, the project has been divided into three sections with a vision to avoid any disruption to commuters. The three sections of the project include,

• Section A covers the stretch from Good success, beginning at Ganga Temple to Supply.
• Section B extends from Supply to Soesdyke Junction.
• Section C continues from Soesdyke Junction to the Timehri Junction near the Timehri Police Station.

The roadway will be upgraded to a two-lane highway with enhanced safety features such as sidewalks and cycle lanes in order to cater to vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians. Along with that the Ministry also aims to installed thermoplastic road markings, LED street lighting, and traffic signs in order to enhance safety and security of the commuters.

The Ministry has also made a comprehensive traffic management plan to ensure the smooth flow of traffic in order to avoid any hurdles and problems. The construction will begin in Section B, where there is enough space to accommodate ongoing work without any disruption. Also, one lane of traffic will remain open at all times, ensuring maintenance of two lanes.

Along with that, the Ministry has also made an unpriced bill of quantities available on their website with a motive to allow the public to track the progress of the project. Through this tracking system, the authorities also aim to ensure transparency and accountability of the project.