The National Works Agency (NWA) is announcing that plans are now in high gear to repair the displaced bridge in Over River St. James; with preliminary works set to commence on the weekend.
The Over River bridge was washed out during the passage of Hurricane Melissa, disconnecting the Over River community, and several other communities in East Central St. James, from the Johns Hall main road. Johns Hall is a popular route used by commuters to access the city of Montego Bay and other surrounding areas. This has forced residents in the area to use alternative routes which have added to travel time and the cost of transportation.
Community Relations Officer at the NWA’s Western Region, Janel Ricketts, says that the Agency has procured the services of a contractor to remove the damaged bridge from the riverbed. Miss Ricketts says this will allow the Agency to complete a comprehensive assessment of the structure which, based on preliminary assessments, is salvageable.
Ms. Ricketts says that following the assessment, the damaged components of the bridge will be replaced, the structure fortified and then relaunched.
