Guyana to commission new US$35M Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali will officially commission the new Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge in Linden, Region Ten, on Sunday, November 15, 2026. The project, constructed at a cost of US$35 million, has been formally handed over to the Ministry of Public Works by the contractor, China Railway Construction (Caribbean) Co. Ltd., following successful load testing.

The new structure replaces a single-lane bridge built in 1967 that previously acted as a major bottleneck for commerce and commuters. The new 224-metre prestressed concrete box girder bridge features four vehicular lanes, two barrier-separated pedestrian walkways, and modern street lighting. It also provides a 36-metre horizontal and 10-metre vertical navigational clearance for river vessels.

To improve connectivity, the bridge includes new four-lane approach roads that link to the Linden-Soesdyke Highway and the Linden-Mabura Road. The project features modern roundabouts on both the Mackenzie and Wismar banks to manage traffic. In line with government commitments, the bridge will be toll-free for all motorists and pedestrians.