The Guyana government estimates that the cost of the new Demerara River bridge will be about US$318 million (GY$66.3 billion), according to this year’s budget documents.
This includes the cost to build the bridge, pay consultants, and construct the road approach network. The project is expected to reduce traffic congestion and travel time for thousands of commuters.
According to the budget 2025 estimates, the central government is responsible for US$155 million (GY$32.4 billion) of the cost, while US$162 million (GY$33.9 billion) is being covered by a loan. The Guyana government signed the loan agreement with the Bank of China in 2022.
Prior to 2025, the government spent US$122 million (GY$25.4 billion) on the project, with additional spending of US$77 million (GY$14.9 billion) from the loan. This year, the central government plans to contribute US$25 million (GY$5.3 billion), and the spend from the loan will be an additional US$71 million (GY$14.9 billion).
Projected expenses up to the end of 2025 are nearly US$295 million (GY$61.6 billion). Approximately US$23 million (GY$47 billion) remains unallocated. The allocations for 2025 are subject to approval by Parliament.
The contract for the construction of the bridge was inked in May 2022 at an estimated US$260 million. The contractor is J.V. China Railway Construction Corporation (International) Limited. The four-lane, high-span cable-stay bridge structure is expected to last 100 years.
A notice to mariners from the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) indicated that the contractor is about to commence installation of the cable-stay bridge deck. Early in January, the Ministry of Public Works said the bridge, which is more than 60% complete, is due to be completed by the end of August.
Exchange rate – GY$208.5 : US$1
