Two high-level officials are representing Saint Lucia in Japan from February 3 to 9, at the financial bid opening, contract negotiation, and contract signing for the Cul De Sac Bridge Project.

The Permanent Secretary in the Department of Infrastructure, Mr. Ivor Daniel, will be accompanied by Chief Engineer, Mr. Albert Jn. Baptiste, at the invitation and expense of the of the Government of Japan.

This is consistent with the rule of public accountability and transparency, as the Cul De Sac Bridge Reconstruction Project is subject to International Bidding Laws and the financial regulations of both Japan and Saint Lucia.

The project will reduce bridge closures due to flooding, and stabilize the volume of transportation by widening and lengthening the existing bridge, which is expected to strengthen socioeconomic development and make the arterial road more resilient to natural disasters.

The project includes road realignment work, expansion of the existing bridge and construction of a proposed roundabout.

JICA has appointed a Japanese Consultant to design and provide costings for the new bridge which will be built by a Japanese Construction Firm, with support from Saint Lucian professionals.

The Department of Infrastructure will provide supervision and oversight during the execution of the project which is now in the procurement phase. The Department of Infrastructure wishes to assure citizens that the construction of a new bridge in Cul De Sac will be done in accordance with global standards.

Government expresses gratitude to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for supporting the further advancement of Saint Lucia, by providing grant funding for this vital infrastructure project.