Stakeholders and residents of Piaye gathered recently for a handover and plaque unveiling ceremony for the newly-constructed Piaye Bridge.

Among those in attendance at the event were Prime Minister Hon. Phillip J Pierre, and Parliamentary Representative for Choiseul, Hon. Bradley Felix.

Addressing those present, the Prime Minister described the bridge construction as a significant milestone in the country's infrastructural development. He reflected on past challenges with commuting to area, and the installation of the temporary bailey bridge erected with the aim to ensure that people had access to essential services.

"I remember critics making fun of the idea of the bailey bridge but our dedicated staff worked tirelessly and we managed to put up a temporary bridge in a few days. I would like to thank the EU for their assistance in Saint Lucia. The new bridge is timely and falls right in line with the government’s infrastructural plans for the development of the west coast and I’m sure the residents are very pleased. The construction on the Anse la Raye Bridge should start very shortly.”

Parliamentary Representative for Choiseul, Hon. Bradly Felix, in his address, spoke of the significance of the bridge and what it represents for the people of the community.

“Today is a day we celebrate. I want to express my admiration to the contractor for being extremely accommodating and community-conscious during the construction period. The contractor took into consideration various aesthetic recommendations provided by the community for the surroundings, like the provision of a park which I’m sure the community will enjoy.

“When traversing this bridge what gives me the most satisfaction is that during community consultations the recommendations given by residents were incorporated in the final design.”

Prime Minister Pierre emphasized the importance of collaboration between units and groups. By highlighting the positives gained by the synergy of a local contractor supervised by an international consultant he gave evidence to the positive gains from learning from one another.

The Prime Minister concluded by stating that despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the projects were completed on time and within budget.

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Prime Minister Pierre delivers the Piaye Bridge

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Piaye Bridge ribbon cutting ceremony

Piaye Bridge construction