The Government of Liberia, under the leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., on September 2, 2025 broke ground for the construction of two China-aid overpass bridges along Tubman Boulevard one near the Ministerial Complex and the other at SKD Boulevard. This landmark infrastructure project, funded by the People’s Republic of China, represents a major step in the Boakai Administration’s commitment to building a safer, faster, more connected, and more prosperous Liberia. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony in Congo Town, President Boakai described the project as a transformational investment that will change how people travel, trade, and live along one of Monrovia’s busiest corridors.
“Today, we are working on a project that will change how people move across this city,” the President declared. “The two overpass bridges are more than just concrete and steel. They are practical solutions designed to reduce congestion, improve road safety, and prevent the economic losses our people face daily due to traffic delays in delivering and acquiring goods and services, and in the movement of ambulances and fire trucks to where they are most needed.”
The President stressed that the construction of the overpasses is deeply rooted in the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), the government’s national development plan, which prioritizes Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism. “At the heart of this agenda is a recognition that road infrastructure is fundamental to inclusive growth,” President Boakai said. “Roads connect people to opportunities and are essential to ending rural neglect. By investing in modern road systems, we are not only improving travel we are building the foundation for a unified, accessible, and prosperous Liberia.” The Head of State further explained that infrastructure is not an abstract idea but a powerful tool for national transformation.
“The power of road infrastructure lies in its ability to shorten distances, lower costs, and enhance growth. Once these bridges are completed, they will serve as a visible sign of our government keeping its promise to improve the efficiency of our road network.” President Boakai extended Liberia’s “deep gratitude” to the People’s Republic of China for its “ongoing generosity in supporting Liberia’s economic transformation.”
“This cooperation and partnership between our two countries is at its best,” he said. “The construction of these bridges is not only a reflection of China’s goodwill but also a concrete step toward realizing tangible projects that align with our national development priorities. The people of Liberia are grateful.” The President also acknowledged the Ministry of Public Works for its diligent preparation and coordination that led to the groundbreaking. President Boakai outlined the benefits of the project, noting that once completed, the overpasses will:
“These benefits are significant and far-reaching,” he emphasized. “This project will also create hundreds of direct and indirect jobs, ranging from skilled technicians and machine operators to vendors and service providers. We expect the contractor to uphold the highest standards of quality, safety, and Liberian participation, including decent work standards and training opportunities that build long-term national capacity.”
Addressing residents and businesses along Tubman Boulevard, the President acknowledged that construction activities may cause temporary inconveniences, including diversions and slower traffic. “I ask for your patience and cooperation with traffic officers,” he said. “Please respect barriers, follow signs, and keep children away from work areas. These short-term inconveniences are the cost of long-term investment and progress. The result, I assure you, will be worth it.” The President reminded the contractors and supervising authorities of their responsibilities. “To our contractor, you are expected to deliver a high-quality project, maintain a safe construction site, and complete the work within the two-year timeframe set by the People’s Republic of China,” he noted. “To the supervision and design teams, enforce standards and transparency.
To the media, share the true story including both challenges and progress to keep the public fully informed.” President Boakai reaffirmed that his administration views infrastructure as a central driver of Liberia’s growth. “Today’s groundbreaking marks a significant milestone in our effort to prioritize infrastructure investment as a means to drive economic development,” he said. “By building roads and bridges that connect communities and open access to agricultural and mining regions, we are creating pathways for growth. At the same time, we are emphasizing investments in energy and water supply to overcome barriers to development, while aligning donor support with our national goals.”
He emphasized that the government is not only committed to construction but also to maintenance and stewardship. “We will not only build but also maintain,” he declared. “These overpasses will be part of a corridor managed with discipline enforcing right-of-way, restricting unnecessary parking, and upholding road safety rules. Infrastructure only delivers value when it is preserved and properly managed.” The President urged Liberians to take pride in the new developments and embrace a culture of stewardship.
“As these projects take shape, let us nurture an appreciation for transformation,” he said. “Respect new developments, keep our environment clean, and work together to ensure that Liberia’s progress is irreversible.” In his closing remarks, President Boakai reiterated his appreciation to the People’s Republic of China, the Ministry of Public Works, and all stakeholders involved in bringing the project to fruition. “Together, we are building the Liberia we promised: a safer, faster, more connected, and more prosperous Liberia,” he said to applause. On behalf of the people and Government of Liberia, President Boakai officially launched the construction of the two overpass bridges on Tubman Boulevard, declaring the project open on this 2nd day of September, 2025.
