Linden Highway set for smoother ride in six months, reduced speed limit being considered

In six months, sections of the Soesdyke-Linden Highway will be smoothed out, providing a more convenient and comfortable experience for drivers who frequently travel this route. The ongoing construction works aim to improve road conditions, reduce travel time, and enhance safety for all road users.

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, shared the update during a site visit on Tuesday morning, emphasizing both the advantages and necessary precautions for the project.

The 2024 rehabilitation of the 73-kilometer Linden-Soesdyke Highway has been allocated $10 billion by the Parliamentary Committee of Supply, forming part of a $30 billion upgrade funded by an Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) loan.

Once completed, road users can look forward to a smoother journey, with construction focused on key sections of the highway. The project will introduce two new roundabouts, upgraded lighting, laybys for trucks, as well as the reconstruction of nine bridges and six culverts. These improvements are designed to enhance road quality, connectivity, and overall public infrastructure.

Minister Edghill also took the opportunity to urge caution among road users during the construction phase. He highlighted the importance of observing speed limits and exercising patience as work progresses.

“The first thing that we have to do here is to get everybody to calm down and slow down, the speed at which the vehicles are moving is not advisable. We will talk with the Traffic Chief and agree on a new speed limit for construction and we will put up signs. The workmen will not be able to work in a construction zone with people driving at 90 km/h,” Edghill stated.

The Soesdyke-Linden Highway is a crucial route connecting Georgetown to Linden and is heavily used by both commercial and private vehicles. Construction work began in September 2024, and many road users have expressed optimism that the upgrades will significantly improve both convenience and safety.

As the project moves forward, the Ministry will provide regular updates on its progress and inform the public of any temporary traffic changes.