Public Works Ministry Unveils Plans for Dry Season Set to Tack Tackle Liberia’s Terribly Bad Road Conditions

Public Works Minister Mr. Roland Giddings has been providing updates on progress being made to tack major road projects across the country. The briefing set the stage for an ambitious plan of action as Liberia prepares for the upcoming dry season.

Minister Giddings, speaking at the regular MICAT press briefing, began by outlining a 100-day Maintenance Intervention aimed at working on several key road corridors, which includes both maintenance and the initiation of new construction projects.

The focus, the Minister said, is on improving connectivity across multiple regions, including the Western, North Western, South Eastern, and Coastal Corridors.

Among major projects discussed, Giddings reported impressive progress on various road rehabilitation efforts pointing to the Gbarnga-Salayea corridor which stands at 91% completion, with 67 kilometers paved out of a total of 81 kilometers; the Ganta to Sanniquellie road, a 37-kilometer project which is fully completed.

Dedication ceremony of the project is pending, as the Sanniquellie to Logatuo project which has its physical progress at 85%, and with approximately 43 kilometers paved.

Other projects mentioned is the Ganta to Saclepea project experiencing 53.3% completion with works set to resume in the dry season.

Minister Giddings indicated that active works are expected to commence on several new corridors in the dry season, including Tappita to Toe Town and Toe Town to Zwedru.

He said current ongoing work is crucial not only for road access, but also for the economic development and integration of our communities.

In addition to road rehabilitation, Minister Giddings revealed the Ministry’s Plan of Action for the dry season, which includes targeted maintenance of city streets through asphalt patching.

Areas such as Mombo Town Road, Logan Town Broad Street, and others in Monrovia that have been earmarked for these essential maintenance efforts.

Furthermore, the Minister announced a “Zoning and Demolition Exercise”, set to facilitate road and infrastructure expansions.

Among other projects seen as exciting developments is the announcement regarding the construction of overpass bridges at the Ministerial Complex and SKD Boulevard Junction, with groundbreaking slated for February 2025.

The Minister said the China Road & Bridge Corporation has been designated the general contractor for this project.

“By finalizing compensation for affected property owners and creating alternative routes during the construction, we are ensuring minimal disruption to the public,” Giddings emphasized.

He said as Liberians gear up for the dry season, the Ministry of Public Works’ initiatives are set to enhance road quality and accessibility throughout the nation.

With a combination of ongoing projects and new interventions, Minister Giddings’ comprehensive plan is designed to fortify the country’s infrastructure, address the critical needs of its citizens and foster economic growth.

The Ministry’s commitment to transparency and community involvement will be key in achieving these ambitious goals, the Minister said.