The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

SARAH St George, vice-chairman of the Grand Bahama Port Authority, has said the new Jack Hayward Bridge is an example of the continued commitment of the GBPA to stimulate economic activity in Freeport.

She said the bridge - which is 35ft high and 100 yards in length - symbolises the principal goals of the founders of Freeport to open up the island to new opportunities, developments, and greater prosperity.

“This is the first major bridge in Grand Bahama since the 1960s so it’s indeed a milestone,” said Ms St George, who also agreed it is a fitting tribute to Sir Jack.

“Sir Jack understood that bridges are among the most powerful and important symbols in human society – symbols of connection, cooperation, and harmony.”

“Sadly, Sir Jack never lived to see his dream come true, but that really wasn’t his aim,” she said.

According to Ms St George, there were many design suggestions for the bridge, from Sir Jack’s first opting for a metal and wood design similar to the Bailey Bridge.

“Another creative soul suggested we build a tunnel under the canal,” she recalled.

The vice-chairman said in the end a two-lane bridge was decided on and built at a cost of some $4m. In addition to the actual bridge construction, she said there is an approach road, an extra half of repaved road on either side, street lighting, bridge lighting, and a $50,000 roundabout and landscaping, completed the project.

The bridge was built by All Build Construction and Waugh Construction. It has a footpath and can accommodate up to 50 tons.

Describing it as a mini Panama Canal, Ms St George explained that the new bridge was built 35ft high because the Grand Lucayan Waterway intersects the whole island and is used as a short cut by boaters trying to get to Abaco.

Ms St George said it also promotes transit to and from the airport, the harbour, and the College of The Bahamas campus where the GBPA has donated $3 million towards the building of dormitories.

She also noted that the Port Authority and DEVCO spent some $200,000 on makeover renovations of the Casuarina Bridge and Taino Bridge a few years ago.

Ms St George acknowledged Sir Jack’s family - his grandson Rupert Hayward, his son Rick Hayward and the wider Hayward family - as well as Patricia Bloom and her family Amy and Mike Clough, who lived with Sir Jack.

She also expressed gratitude to all involved in the project.

“It’s my hope that all persons and things crossing the bridge in whichever direction do so for the purpose of creating happiness, health, wisdom and prosperity. It’s my prayer that the bridge will further unite everyone and our neighbours, multiply the fruits of their labour, and ease the burden of work,” she said earlier this week.

The bridge was officially opened on Monday.