Guayajayuco bridge construction remains stalled weeks after groundbreaking

Residents of Guayajayuco in the Elías Piña province are growing concerned as construction on a long-awaited bridge over the Artibonito River has yet to commence, 21 days after the official groundbreaking ceremony. The initial hope sparked by the ceremony, led by Minister of Public Works Eduardo Estrella, is now turning into worry for the inhabitants of this border area.

The bridge is designed to link Guayajayuco, in the Pedro Santana municipality, with Cruz de Cabrera, in the Dajabón province. For the communities on both sides, this structure represents more than just concrete and steel; it is a crucial connection between two border municipalities and a demand that has been a primary focus for years.

During the groundbreaking event on July 14, Minister Estrella announced an approximate investment of RD$250 million for the project, with an expected completion period of six months. However, the absence of significant machinery or personnel on-site three weeks later has fueled unease among residents. They fear the project might stall, becoming another instance of announcements and ceremonies without tangible results.

Community members have appealed to Minister Estrella and the contracting company, Yellow, urging them to begin construction promptly and to offer transparent information regarding the execution timeline. "Minister Eduardo Estrella, we already had the first groundbreaking; now let's have the second, so this bridge truly becomes a reality," expressed Guayajayuco residents. As they await the arrival of equipment, the hope remains that the promised bridge will materialize and finally unite the two communities that have long sought a secure connection.