This weekend during an interview with a local news station, former Minister of Works Desmond Bannister called for the government to explain the increased estimated cost for the reconstruction cost of the Glass Window Bridge insinuating that there is something untoward about the price increase.
When I took on the role as Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs in September 2023, the reconstruction of the Glass Window Bridge was one of the first projects I was briefed on, I noted that the feasibility study undertaken in November 2020 had the bridge cost in the region of $26.1M to $35.6M, the study considered five (5) different options.
The cost of the bridge in 2020 that Mr Bannister is referring to during the interview was based on the preliminary design assumptions, however, the preliminary design stage DOES NOT have a detailed geotechnical study included. The costs at that stage are only for comparison between the different options. The estimated cost of the reconstruction increased during the ‘detailed design stage’ where the length of the bridge was increased as voids were found at the southern end of the scheme.
Also during the geotechnical stage the foundations were designed which further increased the cost. The costs undertaken in 2020 were based upon preliminary design and pre-covid construction cost. The final cost of the geotechnical stage, coupled with construction inflation cost over the past five years have brought us to the final cost of $60 million.
In 2022, The Bahamian Contractors Association president was quoted in an interview stating that the cost of construction-related materials has gone up more than 60 percent across the board compared to pre-pandemic prices. As Minister of Works, I invite Mr Bannister to review the finalized plans and cost for a better understanding before attempting to cause alarm.
The Cabinet of The Bahamas recently approved the use of United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) credit support to finance the construction of the Glass Window Bridge. This approach benefits the Government by accelerating project
delivery and securing financing at competitive rates. The Ministry of Finance has confirmed that the loan will be secured through The Bridge Authority.
It is anticipated that the loan agreement will be finalized in early 2025, with funds drawn down, allowing construction to begin. This suggests a completion date for the bridge for early 2027.
In my recent contribution to the Bridge Authority Amendment Bill 2024, I would have noted: The Glass Window Bridge which connects the island of Eleuthera provides for the transportation of goods and services and moves thousands of
people annually to and from the North, Spanish Wells and Harbour Island.
During inclement weather, the entire island is hampered by the necessary closure of the bridge. Our communities are disconnected, and many people are inconvenienced, travel is hampered and the alternatives to move from one side to
the next are extremely costly and challenging.
As Minister I am here to work for the Bahamian people and to remain open and transparent about any issues.
Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs
Hon. Clay G. Sweeting
END.
