After many years of being defective and earmarked for replacement, two bridges located in the community of Fontabelle and Jacks River in St. Mary are to be replaced by the National Works Agency (NWA). The two structures that facilitate travel for thousands of residents between the townships of Ocho Rios, Oracabessa and Port Maria are being replaced through the Jamaica Development Infrastructure Programme (JDIP).
Preliminary work to replace the structures got underway this week. State Minister for Transport and Works, Honourable, Richard Azan says the projects should be completed within the next eight weeks at a combined cost of just under 30 million dollars.
He explains that both structures are to be replaced by Modular Compact 200 Bridges. The Eden Bridge, which is located in the community of Jacks River Bridge, failed in 2004 and is being replaced with 100 feet structure. A 50 foot bridge will replace the defective structure at Fontabelle.
Regarding the Fontabelle community, Minister Azan explains that two structures are in need of replacement, however, due to budgetary constraints, only one is being targeted at this time.
In the meantime, gabion protective works are to be carried out within a section of the Tiber River. The works are to be done in order to mitigate the effects of floodwaters on the nearby roadway, as well as to protect the abutments of the Tiber River Bridge.
