Spring Village Bridge reopens in St Catherine after $250-million rebuild

The rebuilt Spring Village Bridge in St Catherine has been officially opened, reconnecting communities that had faced longer, more costly travel since the old crossing was closed in September 2022.

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, Infrastructure Minister Robert Nesta Morgan, Member of Parliament Clifford Everald Warmington, National Works Agency officials, Jamaica Broilers Group representatives and residents took part in the opening ceremony. The bridge, valued at about $250 million, replaces an old structure that could no longer safely serve the area after heavy water flows damaged its supports and approaches.

Morgan said the project restored a route that matters to daily movement, business activity, school access, public safety and community confidence. He said the new structure includes pedestrian access, concrete walls, protective works, signs and road markings, making it a safer crossing for the communities that depend on it.

Holness said the former bridge, also referred to as the Nightingale Grove Bridge, dated back to the early 1900s and had served the area for more than 150 years. He said the closure forced residents to use difficult alternatives while the Government worked through investment approval, procurement and construction challenges.

The Prime Minister said the project showed why Jamaica must build infrastructure that can withstand heavier rainfall, flooding and changing climate conditions. He also said public investment decisions must balance local demands with national economic priorities.

Warmington thanked the Government, the National Works Agency, contractor Mr Woodbine and Jamaica Broilers for helping to deliver the project. He noted that other crossings in the wider area, including Bush Park and Lluidas Vale, had also been affected by washouts.

Jamaica Broilers was praised for assisting the community while the bridge was out, including by providing a pedestrian crossing. Residents said the completed bridge shortens travel, improves safety and restores easier access to work, school, church, home and essential services.