Construction of the new Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge in Region 10 has reached a major milestone, with construction progressing to the pile-driving stage.
The state-of-the-art 220-metre-long four-lane bridge, which is being constructed at a cost of US$35 million, will provide a vastly enhanced link between Georgetown, Linden, and the extended Mabura-Lethem corridor upon completion by April 2026.
The new structure, which will replace the aging bridge built in the 1960s, is being developed to support the growing demands of trade and transportation across Guyana’s hinterland.
Located across the Demerara River, the bridge will link the communities of Wismar on the western bank and Mackenzie on the eastern bank of Linden.
Pile driving began in April 2025 and is expected to continue for an additional two months. This phase follows the completion of critical preparatory works, including utility relocation and the implementation of traffic control systems to accommodate the ongoing construction activities.
Once piling is completed, the project will move to the installation of pile caps, followed by the construction of piers and bent caps. Girders are expected to be installed during the third and fourth quarters of 2025.
Designed to modern highway standards, the bridge will feature a 32-metre horizontal clearance and an 11.5-metre vertical clearance to accommodate river traffic.
Additionally, two-metre-wide sidewalks will be constructed on both sides, enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility.
The Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge will play a critical role in facilitating economic development and cross-border commerce, especially between Brazil and Georgetown, by improving access along the Linden to Lethem route.
The bridge is also expected to strengthen the logistics and transportation network throughout Region 10. The bridge is being constructed by China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) Limited.
The CRCC is also the firm behind the US$260 million bridge being constructed across the Demerara River.
Historically, the current Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge was built between 1965 and 1967 by the Demerara Bauxite Company to transport ore from mines in Wismar and Christianburg to processing facilities in Mackenzie. Tolls on the Mackenzie-Wismar Bridge will be removed on August 1, 2025.
