New bridge opened over Silver Creek

If you regularly travel the route between Belmopan and Dangriga you know that despite the smooth pavement and spectacular scenery, those many single lane bridges can make the trip both stressful and dangerous. Well, as of today there is one less narrow bridge to worry about. Work on the new two-lane span over Silver Creek started in February and it was completed by Cisco Construction at a cost of around two point two million dollars. The European Union contributed one point five million as a grant with the Belize Government providing the balance. At dedication ceremonies this morning Minister of Works Mike Espat noted that easier driving is not the only benefit of the new bridge.

Mike Espat, Minister of Works
?As you all know, this area is prone to major flooding, therefore, you may note that along with the building of this new bridge there has been major work done to improve the drainage of the area with the construction of a large culvert right ahead, not too far from here, that was also a part of the construction when they did the designing for this new bridge. It is now expected that the levels of flooding will be less dramatic in the future and that the area will be safer for the residents in and around Silver Creek.?

Cutting the ribbon for the European Union was Head of Delegation Gerd Jarchow. Motorists are reminded that while the old narrow bridge is a thing of the past, the sharp curve to its south is still there, so slow down and enjoy the drive.