Kupius Bridge Project Will Provide Jobs and Facilitate Development – Azan

State Minister for Transport, Works and Housing, Hon. Richard Azan, says re-construction of the Kupius Bridge in Pennants, will provide jobs for scores of residents, while facilitating further development of communities in North and North Central Clarendon.

“This project forms part of Government’s commitment to rural development,” he said.

Mr. Azan was addressing a community meeting held at the Prayer Line Church of God in the community following a visit to the project site on Wednesday (January 13).

Contracts valued at approximately $700 million were signed in December for the building of a two-lane reinforced concrete bridge, to replace the existing single-lane steel structure, which has deteriorated extensively since it was built over 100 years ago.

The bridge spans Jamaica’s longest river, the Rio Minho and is a major link for several communities including Chapelton, Frankfield, Kellits and Pennants.

The 15-month project, which comes under the Major Infrastructure Development Programme (MIDP), is being undertaken by China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), with the National Works Agency (NWA) as the implementing agency. Preliminary work got underway on January 11.

Mr. Azan reminded persons, who will be employed on the project, that they must have a valid Tax Registration Number (TRN) and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) card.

In his address, Health Minister and Member of Parliament for Northern Clarendon, Hon. Horace Dalley, said he expects the bridge to be finished within the specified time.

He called for full cooperation from residents of the beneficiary communities and encouraged workers to use the opportunity to learn new skills.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for North Central Clarendon, Pearnel Charles, welcomed the project.

“When it is finished, it is going to be a beauty…I hope it will be helpful to the travelling public,” he said.