Piaye Bridge Officially Handed Over in St. Lucia
A Milestone for Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
On January 23, 2024, the Government of St. Lucia held a handing-over ceremony at the site of the newly reconstructed Piaye Bridge, marking the completion of a critical project aimed at enhancing the country’s infrastructure resilience.
The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Hon. Philip J. Pierre, members of his Cabinet, Félix Fernández-Shaw (Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships), and several European Union dignitaries, alongside local residents and stakeholders.
The Piaye Bridge, located in the south-western part of the island, serves as a vital link connecting the communities of Laborie, Choiseul, and Soufrière to Vieux-Fort. This new, climate-resilient structure replaces the previous bridge, which was destroyed by the catastrophic Christmas Eve Trough of December 2013, leaving the region with significant challenges in transportation and commerce.
The reconstruction of the Piaye Bridge was successfully completed by O.B. Sadoo Engineering Services Ltd., a trusted local contractor with a proven track record in infrastructure development. Their expertise and dedication to quality construction played a pivotal role in delivering this critical project on time and to the highest standards. The involvement of a local firm underscores the government’s commitment to fostering homegrown talent and supporting local businesses while achieving national development goals.
A Step Toward Resilience and Growth
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre emphasized the bridge’s importance for national development and resilience:
“The successful completion of this project signifies our commitment to strengthening our national infrastructure and spearheading Saint Lucia’s transition towards climate-resilient construction.”
He further reflected on the impact of the 2013 disaster and the urgency of rebuilding for the future:
“The Piaye Bridge, which links the south-western communities of Laborie, Choiseul, and Soufrière to the town of Vieux-Fort, was destroyed for the second time by the December 2013 Christmas Eve Trough, and its destruction posed significant challenges.”
The reconstruction of the bridge was made possible through a collaborative effort between the Government of St. Lucia and international partners, including the European Union, which has played a vital role in funding and technical assistance.
Félix Fernández-Shaw, representing the European Commission, reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting St. Lucia’s development and resilience initiatives:
“The Piaye Bridge is not just a structure; it is a symbol of collaboration and resilience, addressing the challenges posed by climate change.”
Features of the New Bridge
The new Piaye Bridge incorporates modern engineering techniques designed to withstand extreme weather events. Key features include:
- Climate-resilient materials for enhanced durability.
- Improved drainage systems to minimize flooding risks.
- Wider lanes to ensure the safety of both pedestrians and vehicles.
This project is a clear demonstration of St. Lucia’s efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change and build a more sustainable future.
Community Impact
For residents of the region, the reopening of the Piaye Bridge represents a major step forward. The improved connectivity will boost economic activity, ease transportation for commuters, and strengthen the link between rural and urban communities in the south.
Looking Ahead
With the Piaye Bridge now open to the public, the government continues to prioritize infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing resilience and fostering development across the island.
The day’s celebrations concluded with the symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by cultural performances showcasing the spirit of the St. Lucian people.
Watch the Ceremony
Relive the key moments of this historic event by watching the full handing-over ceremony below: