KINGSTON, Jamaica — People’s National Party (PNP) caretaker for Hanover Eastern Andrea Purkiss, is calling for the urgent repair of the collapsed Woodsville bridge, which she says has been a critical issue since its complete failure in April 2023.

Purkiss in a statement on Wednesday, said she has written Robert Morgan, minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, highlighting the dire need for immediate reconstruction of the bridge.

She said the financial scope of the project is beyond the capacity of the Hanover Municipal Corporation and requires the government’s direct involvement.

Additionally, Purkiss noted that the Woodsville bridge is a vital connection point for several farming communities and districts in Hanover and Westmoreland.

“It is also part of the main access route to Mayfield Falls, one of Jamaica’s premier tourist attractions. The collapse of this bridge has disrupted daily life, commerce, and tourism in the region”, said Purkiss.

She said despite resourceful community efforts to construct a temporary wooden crossing over the Cabarita River, Purkiss described the current situation as “neither safe nor sustainable.”

The caretaker is calling on Morgan to expedite the reconstruction process, noting that the National Works Agency (NWA) has already completed preliminary assessments and included the project on a list for potential funding.

She also called for collaboration with the Minister of Local Government, the Hanover Municipal Corporation, and the Minister of Tourism to explore additional funding avenues, including potential support from the Tourism Product Development Company.

“The economic implications for agriculture and tourism in Eastern Hanover make this issue one of national importance,” Purkiss said.

“The residents of this constituency deserve a swift and decisive response to restore safe and reliable access and connectivity.”