MONROVIA – The Ministry of Public Works has announced major progress on the construction of the Bailey Bridge linking Grand Bassa Community University to surrounding communities, with the government now targeting November 2026 for completion and public use.
In a press release issued Friday, June 26, the Ministry disclosed that the bridge abutments and approach slabs have already been completed, marking a significant milestone in the project. According to the Ministry, the remaining major phase involves the installation of the Bailey Bridge superstructure, which has already been fabricated and is undergoing final preparations for shipment to Liberia.
The Ministry said representatives of the project’s contractor, Jupiter Inc., along with the Chief Engineer of the Ministry of Public Works, are currently in the People’s Republic of China conducting pre-shipment inspections of the bridge materials and components.
According to the Ministry, the inspection is intended to ensure that all bridge components meet the required engineering specifications and quality standards before they are shipped. Once the inspection process is successfully completed, the materials are expected to arrive in Liberia within the next 60 days.
Officials expressed optimism that, subject to shipping schedules and installation timelines, the Bailey Bridge will be completed and officially opened to the public in November 2026, providing a permanent crossing that will significantly improve access to the university and nearby communities.
The Ministry also acknowledged growing public concern over the temporary wooden crossing currently being used, particularly during the rainy season when rising river levels increase the risk of flooding.
As a precautionary measure, the Ministry strongly advised that the temporary bridge be used only by pedestrians and only under safe conditions. It warned residents not to use the crossing during periods of high water, flooding, or strong river currents in order to prevent accidents and possible loss of life.
The Ministry called on the administration of Grand Bassa Community University, students, faculty members, community leaders, and residents to help spread the safety advisory and encourage full compliance until the permanent bridge becomes operational.
While expressing regret for the inconvenience caused by the ongoing construction, the Ministry thanked the university community and the public for their patience and cooperation, assuring them that efforts remain focused on delivering a safe, durable, and long-lasting bridge.
In addition to the bridge project, the Ministry announced that procurement is underway for the construction of a proposed 3.7-kilometer access road linking Main Street to the Grand Bassa Community University campus through the new bridge corridor.
Construction of the access road is expected to begin during the upcoming dry season and is intended to improve transportation to the university while enhancing connectivity for surrounding communities.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to expanding and improving road and bridge infrastructure across Grand Bassa County and throughout Liberia, describing the Bailey Bridge project as part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen transportation networks and improve access to education and economic opportunities.
