Bridge Linking Cornwall Courts and Green Pond Officially Opened

The bridge linking Cornwall Courts, Green Pond and surrounding communities in St. James was officially opened on Sunday, September 1.

The project, which had a budget of approximately $13 million, was completed just in time for the start of the new school year.

This will make life easier for more than 30,000 people who were affected, particularly those living in the Cornwall Courts Housing Scheme, who have had to use an alternative route to access their community since July 2.

In his address at the opening ceremony, Mayor of Montego Bay and Chairman of the St. James Municipal Corporation, Councillor Richard Vernon, said he was satisfied with the project’s timely completion.

“It is not just a new bridge. It is an improved version of what was here before. It is resilient,” he pointed out.

In addition to the bridge, the project included the construction of a new drainage system complete with inlets and outlets.

Mayor Vernon also highlighted improvements made to the surrounding sections of the gully that was reinforced and new sidewalks that persons with disabilities can access.

“The bus stop was removed and we’re going to build a new one,” the Mayor pointed out.

“Also, we are in dialogue with the Member of Parliament, as there is a drainage study being done, and this section is being looked at. So, the residents in this area can also anticipate a buildout and improvement of the gully,” he added.

In the meantime, President of the Green Pond Community Development Committee (CDC), Judith Wallace, thanked all stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring that the bridge was completed.

“The community is happy for the hard work as we continue to work together to build a better community to serve one another,” she said.

Resident, Annmarie Douglas, also shared her appreciation for the swift completion of the project, noting that “people go and come” freely and without worry.