Melvin Hill Bridge repairs to start this weekend

Preparatory works for the long-awaited repairs to the Melvin Hill Bridge in St Joseph are set to begin this weekend, more than a month after the key structure was closed due to safety concerns.

Contractors from the China National Complete Plant Import and Export Corporation (COMPLANT), working alongside sub-contractor C.O. Williams Construction Ltd., are expected to begin debushing the area to allow utility companies to carry out a site assessment.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Project Manager at C.O. Williams Construction, Adrian Mayers, said the utility assessment will help determine where services need to be relocated before full repair work can begin on the bridge.

Since the closure, residents and commuters in Melvin Hill and surrounding districts have been relying on a bypass route from Springfield to Newton Crescent.

The ministry confirmed that the road has undergone several upgrades in recent weeks, including tree trimming, pothole patching, and the replacement of a culvert.

Chief Technical Officer at the Ministry of Transport and Works, Jenifer King, said paving of the bypass road is expected to start next week.

The Transport Board, which had raised concerns about the safety of its vehicles along the alternate route, has welcomed the ministry’s response, with Operations Manager Gena Boyce stating the board is satisfied with the improvements and expects the road will be open to buses and other vehicles within two weeks.

The Melvin Hill Bridge was shut down last month after it was deemed unstable.

The ministry is again warning the public not to use the bridge, and to use the bypass route once it officially opens. (SM)