New bridge across Saramacca Channel to be opened

The new bridge that runs across the Saramacca Channel, the Beekhuizen Bridge, will be opened soon so that traffic can flow smoothly. Public Works, Transport and Communication Minister Patrick Pengel explained that construction of the bridge was completed sooner than expected. Reports indicate that thanks to the newest addition there are currently six bridges that run across the Saramacca Channel. “The work was done within 16 months. The bridge is ready,” said Minister Pengel who added that the finishing touch is being put to the bridge. The minister explained that construction went smoother than expected despite several stagnations. It had initially been estimated that the construction project would last longer than 18 months. Minister Pengel pointed out that the primary objective is to make traffic run smooth from north to south and vice versa. The government’s policy is aimed at providing as many alternatives as possible to the people so that they can reach their destinations as fast as possible.

The minister explained that the ministry also plans on repairing the old bridge across the Saramacca Channel. Several years ago some minor construction work was done at the lower section of the bridge. Officials now want to upgrade the upper section. Officials also want to add an additional construction next to the bridge so that the bridge will transform from a 2 lane bridge to a 4 lane bridge. The minister added that these projects will be taken into reconsideration and that a final decision will be made after the Beekhuizen Bridge has been opened.