MONROVIA – Public Works Minister Roland Layfette Giddings on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, described the groundbreaking for two overpass bridges along Tubman Boulevard as a historic step toward transforming Liberia’s road infrastructure. Speaking at the ceremony held at the Ministerial Complex, Minister Giddings emphasized that the project goes beyond steel and concrete, symbolizing a modern Liberia embracing innovation in urban development.
“These overpasses at the Ministerial Complex and the SKD Boulevard Junction will not be just giant-size bridges of concrete and steel, but two aesthetic pieces of infrastructure that will serve generations,” Minister Giddings said. He praised the Government of China for its continued support to Liberia, recounting past contributions to the country’s growth through road construction, education, and health programs.
The ceremony brought together a cross-section of dignitaries, including President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, Chinese Ambassador Yin Chengwu, Members of the Legislature, Cabinet officials, local authorities, and civil society representatives. Performances by local artists also highlighted the significance of the event.
President Boakai, in his remarks, lauded China for the goodwill gesture and underscored that the overpasses would mark a visible sign of government delivering on its promise to improve Liberia’s road network. “Once these bridges are completed, there will be a visible sign of Government keeping its promises of improving the efficiency of the Road Network of our country,” the President said. He stressed that the project will reduce traffic congestion, improve safety for motorists and pedestrians, and enhance economic activity through the free flow of goods and services.
Chinese Ambassador Yin Chengwu reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening ties with Liberia. “China and Liberia are thousands of miles apart, but our hearts are at close wavelength,” he remarked, expressing appreciation to the Liberian government and the Ministry of Public Works for the collaboration that led to the project’s launch.
Providing technical details, Deputy Public Works Minister for Technical Services Prince Tambah disclosed that the project, valued at US$36.6 million, will span 24 months from September 2025 to August 2027. He explained that the west overpass near the Ministerial Complex will be approximately 300 meters long with 2,290 meters of auxiliary and approach roads, while the east overpass at the Boulevard Junction will measure around 180 meters with 1,784 meters of connecting roads.
The project is contracted to China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) with oversight by China Railway Eryuan Engineering Group, Co. Ltd., under the ownership of the Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Public Works.
Minister Giddings concluded that the groundbreaking marks the beginning of a new era in Liberia’s infrastructure drive. “This project is not only about bridges; it is about building confidence, progress, and a brighter future for our people,” he noted.
