JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
By Stephen G. Fellajuah
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has officially broken ground for the construction of two major China-aid overpass bridges on Tubman Boulevard, describing the project as one that will fundamentally change how Liberians “travel, trade, and live” along one of the capital city’s busiest transport corridors.
The US$36.7 million infrastructure project, funded by the People’s Republic of China, is part of Liberia’s broader development agenda and is set to be implemented over two years. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in Congo Town, Monrovia, and was attended by Chinese Ambassador Yin Chengwu, members of the diplomatic corps, government officials, development partners, and the general public.
“This is a project that will change how people travel, trade, and live,” President Boakai told attendees. “The power of road infrastructure is that it shortens distances, lowers costs, and enhances economic growth. Once these bridges are completed, there will be a visible sign of our government keeping its promises.”
The two overpass bridges, one located near the Ministerial Complex and the other further east at SKD Boulevard, are designed to alleviate severe traffic congestion in Monrovia, improve emergency vehicle movement, and prevent economic losses tied to delayed transportation of goods and services.
“These overpasses are more than concrete and steel,” President Boakai stated. “They are practical solutions to real problems, congestion, safety risks, and logistical delays.”
The project is a key deliverable under the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), which emphasizes infrastructure development as a cornerstone of inclusive growth and national unity.
“Roads connect people to opportunities and are essential to ending rural neglect,” the President said. “By investing in modern road systems, we are building the foundation for a unified, accessible, and prosperous Liberia.”
President Boakai expressed deep gratitude to the Chinese government for its continued partnership and investment in Liberia’s economic development.
“This cooperation is at its best. China continues to support us not just with words, but with action, real, tangible projects that are aligned with our national priorities.”
He also commended the Ministry of Public Works for its technical preparation and coordination, calling the effort “an example of diligent public service.”
By creating two modern, grade-separated intersections, we are removing bottlenecks that have constrained mobility for years, Boakai added.
According to the President, once completed, the overpass bridges will deliver multiple benefits, reduce crashes and injuries by lowering conflict points between vehicles and pedestrians, improve logistics for traders, schools, clinics, and businesses along the corridor, decrease travel time during peak hours, and enhance traffic regulation and support public transportation efficiency.
In addition, the project is expected to create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs, ranging from skilled technicians and machine operators to vendors and service providers.
“We expect the contractor to uphold the highest standards of quality, safety, and Liberian participation,” said Boakai. “This includes decent work conditions and on-the-job training that builds national capacity.”
Addressing residents and businesses located along the construction corridor, President Boakai acknowledged the inconvenience that comes with such a large-scale project.
He stated that there will be diversions, slower traffic, and work zones. He asks for their patience, cooperation with traffic officers, and commitment to road safety. Please respect barriers, follow signs, and keep children away from work areas,” he advised.
Still, the result will definitely be worth it,” he assured.
The President urged the contractor to complete the project on time and to standard and called on the design and supervision teams to maintain transparency and quality control. He also encouraged the media to report the truth about both challenges and progress.
In closing, President Boakai reaffirmed his administration’s commitment not only to building infrastructure but also maintaining it.
He emphasized that his government will not only construct but also maintain. These overpasses will be part of a corridor managed with discipline, including right-of-way enforcement, regulated parking, and road safety rules.
