Fresh Creek Bridge Completed and Reopened

Mon, Oct 26th 2020, 01:27 PM

The Fresh Creek Bridge in Central Andros is declared safe to the public and is open for vehicular traffic, Works Minister the Honourable T. Desmond Bannister confirmed yesterday.

“I’m happy to announce the repairs to the Fresh Creek Bridge are completed and the bridge is open for vehicular traffic,” Mr. Bannister said. “The existing bridge is temporary, and a replacement bridge is top priority for the Ministry of Public Works. Next year the Ministry will organise a Town Hall meeting to present replacement bridge options to the residents.”

Bahamas Marine Construction Supervisor Brando Thompson said the repairs made to the bridge will give the bridge a lifespan of another forty-five (45) to fifty (50) years.

“The structural part of the bridge is already sealed and finished. Due to the salt air one side of the bridge took a lot of rust versus the next side. We did the majority of the work on the northern side. To date we have put down two fifty (50) feet piles and we have also put in a beam to give the bridge extra support” Mr. Thompson said.

The Ministry canvased the island last week and spoke to residents who expressed joy for the repairs made to the Fresh Creek Bridge.

Mr. Marshall, resident said the bridge opening is truly a blessing for the people in Central Andros.

“During the repairs persons who had to work on the southern side of the bridge had to get up early to catch the Ferry. It’s a blessing we finally got over this. I thank the Minister and the government this issue has been fixed,” he said.

Mr. Brennen said “It was a quick process and things were kind of hectic but thankfully the bridge is now open. The bridge had to be repaired and we are grateful it is finally open.”

In March, a contract was signed with a local Bahamian firm, Caribbean Coastal Services, to undertake the Engineering Studies and Design of the replacement of the Fresh Creek Bridge.

 Sponsored Ads