LOCAL NEWS
RIVERGEE COUNTY –The reconstruction of the temporary wooden Tienpo Nyonken Bridge over the River Nor is officially underway in River Gee County, marking a significant investment in rural infrastructure and renewing hope for thousands of residents and travelers who rely on the crossing daily.
By: Pah G. Jallah Jr.
Valued at approximately US$60,000, the project is being implemented by county authorities with support from the Government of Liberia. Once completed, it is expected to restore safe and reliable access between Tienpo Statutory District and neighboring communities.
The initiative is widely regarded as a major step toward improving transportation, strengthening community connectivity, and accelerating economic and social development in southeastern Liberia.
For years, the deteriorating condition of the bridge posed serious challenges for commuters, traders, farmers, students, healthcare workers, and motorists.
During the rainy season, crossing the River Nor often became dangerous, disrupting movement, limiting access to essential public services, and slowing economic activities within the district.
Local officials believe the reconstruction will provide immediate relief by restoring a critical transportation corridor that supports agriculture, commerce, education, and healthcare delivery. Traders and gold miners are also expected to benefit from improved access, helping to reduce travel time and transportation costs.
The ongoing work follows an announcement issued on May 7, 2026, by the Office of River Gee County Superintendent Mike Swengbe, confirming that construction of the temporary wooden bridge would commence shortly. Authorities estimate that the project will be completed within approximately three weeks.
The reconstruction is being carried out by Homeland Liberia Limited, a Liberian-owned construction company contracted to restore the damaged crossing and re-establish one of the county’s most important transportation links.
The Tienpo Nyonken Bridge serves as a strategic gateway connecting residents of Tienpo Statutory District to other parts of River Gee County while facilitating travel to neighboring Sinoe and Grand Kru Counties.
County officials noted that rebuilding the structure is essential to addressing transportation challenges that emerged after severe flooding and adverse weather conditions damaged the bridge, disrupting commerce and restricting access to healthcare facilities, schools, and local markets.
The project also fulfills an earlier commitment by Superintendent Mike Swengbe, who announced that the Government of Liberia had allocated approximately US$60,000 for the reconstruction effort.
Originally constructed in 2017 through the initiative of River Gee County District #1 Representative Alexander Poure, the bridge has long served as a vital corridor for economic activity, trade, and social interaction across the county and surrounding regions.
Residents, business owners, and community leaders have welcomed the commencement of the reconstruction, describing it as a timely intervention that will restore livelihoods, improve mobility, and reconnect communities that have faced prolonged transportation challenges since the bridge was damaged.
Meanwhile, many citizens of River Gee County have taken to social media to express appreciation to the county administration, the national government, and all partners involved in launching the project.
They describe the reconstruction as a meaningful investment in infrastructure and improved public services for underserved communities.
However, some critics have expressed concerns, arguing that the reconstruction does not appear to reflect the reported government allocation of approximately US$60,000.
They contend that the temporary wooden structure may not represent the most effective use of taxpayers’ money and have called for greater transparency and accountability regarding the project’s budget, scope, and implementation.
Upon completion, the temporary wooden bridge is expected to improve mobility, stimulate local commerce, enhance access to education and healthcare, and strengthen economic opportunities for thousands of people across the region.
Editor’s Note: This story was originally done by Voice of River-Gee in River-Gee County.
