Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge named “Samuel Hinds River Bridge”; eastern approach named after the late Robert Corbin; western approach named after PM Mark Phillips

The new US$35 million Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) has been named “Samuel Hinds River Bridge Wismar-Mackenzie.”

The McKenzie end (eastern) of the bridge has been named after the late Robert Corbin, former People’s National Congress (PNC) Leader and former Deputy Prime Minister of Guyana.

The Wismar (western) approached has been named after Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips.

The two roundabouts have been named the “Roundabouts of Heros” to celebrate persons of Region 10, who have contributed to the development of the region.

The announcement was made by President Dr Irfaan Ali today during the official commissioning. The bridge was formally handed over to the Ministry of Public Works by the contractor, China Railway Construction (Caribbean) Co. Ltd. Constructed at a cost of US$35 million, the new bridge is a modern, durable structure designed to serve Linden and the hinterland for generations. Its key features include a 224-metre prestressed, post-tensioned concrete box girder superstructure spanning the Demerara River at Linden; four vehicular lanes – replacing the existing single-lane crossing; and two barrier-separated pedestrian walkways for the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.

Moreover, the new fixed-high span structure also features a maximum horizontal navigational clearance of 36 metres and a vertical clearance of 10 metres, allowing vessels to continue navigating the river uninterrupted. Modern street lighting along the full length of the bridge also allows for safe night-time travel. The bridge will be toll-free for all motorists and pedestrians, in keeping with the Government’s commitment to the people of Linden.