Govt unveils design for US$156M Mahaica–Abary 4-lane highway

– as bids for project set to open on August 1

The Public Works Ministry on Friday engaged stakeholders to discuss the design for the upgraded Mahaica to Abary Road at the Mahaicony Technical and Vocational Training Centre.
The team, led by subject Minister Bishop Juan Edghill, briefed residents, business owners, religious community leaders, motorists, and other stakeholders on the project overview, its design, and the proposed work.
Environmental and social concerns, as well as grievance redress mechanisms, were among the topics discussed.

The earmarked four-lane highway, which has an expected 20-year lifespan, will be divided into three lots. Initial works will be executed in Lots One and Two, which entail rehabilitative work.
The upgraded thoroughfare will feature widened lanes with a median, light fixtures, a raised crosswalk, crossing signage for pedestrians and animals (cattle), rumble strips, and junction improvements.
Edghill told the meeting that the initial consultation focuses on briefing the beneficiaries on the development intentions until a contractor is identified. He noted that once a contractor is engaged, the team will return to present traffic management plans, as the operational aspects will arise when that engagement occurs.
While emphasising that development within the region is crucial, stakeholders raised concerns about potential property or private land acquisition, the drainage system, and the preservation of railway structures that are considered monuments and artefacts. In response, the consultant added that options to keep the structures will be explored, emphasising that these bridge structures will not be discarded.

The Minister added that whatever is done will have to be signed off by the hydrologic engineer at the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA). He reminded those gathered that these concerns have been raised across the country and have been successfully addressed.
“So, while there must be some inconvenience, it is for the long-term good, and it will definitely help with the development of your region. I’ve been doing this for some time, so I’m fully aware of what can arise. If, for any reason, in order to get this road completed, we have to use anyone’s private property, you will not be disadvantaged. The constitution provides that you are given fair market compensation.”
This vital project ties into the Government’s wider vision of improving and expanding the nation’s transport network. By seamlessly linking communities, reducing travel times, and expanding economic corridors, these countrywide developments are designed to enhance the standard of living for all citizens and build a highly competitive, modern economy for the future.

Back in October 2025, it was reported that the Government would use part of a US$156 million loan from the World Bank to provide consultancy services for the reconstruction of the existing road network on the East Coast Demerara-Mahaica Bridge to Abary Bridge Road Corridor.
The project was approved in early 2025 by the World Bank and is geared toward supporting Guyana in its quest to upgrade and rehabilitate the country’s road infrastructure. It will focus on enhancing the country’s transport network in selected regions to allow for better-equipped infrastructure that could withstand natural hazards while providing safer and more reliable movement for persons.
Bids for the project are expected to open on August 1, 2026, at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB).