IPNEWS: ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) has officially dedicated a fully rehabilitated overhead bridge, valued at $700,000, restoring a vital transportation and economic corridor between its port concession and key communities in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County.
Located 2.5 kilometers from the Buchanan Port, the bridge connects AML’s operations with surrounding communities including Koruah, District Hole, More Town, Baconie, and the Sun Set Beach area. Though a public asset, the structure plays a critical role in supporting both local commuters and AML’s iron ore railway operations from Mount Tokadeh to the port.
In 2018, AML engineers raised concerns about visible cracks on the bridge’s piers. A joint technical assessment by the Ministry of Public Works and AML confirmed that the structure was nearing collapse, posing a threat to public safety and mining logistics. Despite the urgency, the government at the time cited a lack of resources for repairs.
AML subsequently commissioned an independent consultant in 2019, whose report detailed worsening structural damage and warned of the imminent danger the bridge posed to motorists, pedestrians, and operations. With no alternative funding available, AML led efforts to restore the structure.
After high-level consultations with government officials and stakeholders, the company advanced a multi-pronged plan: rerouting traffic, launching public safety awareness, and pursuing a permanent structural redesign.
In 2023, AML subcontracted AFCONS, a global engineering firm, to carry out the rehabilitation. Work was completed by February 2024, and the bridge was formally handed over to AML for operational integration, marking a total investment of approximately $700,000.
At Thursday’s dedication ceremony in Buchanan, AML’s Head of Sustainability and External Relations, Marcus Wleh, emphasized the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting public infrastructure and safe transport.
“Today, we have come to dedicate this bridge—not just the bridge, but also the rehabilitated road,” Wleh said. “This road and bridge are part of the many efforts ArcelorMittal continues to make for Liberia.”
Grand Bassa County Development Officer Moses Henry, speaking on behalf of Superintendent Karyou Johnson, expressed appreciation.
“We describe this as good for now, but we pray for ‘very good,’ and later we would like to see ‘excellent,’” he said, encouraging even greater collaboration.
Mayor of Buchanan, George Gaybueh, echoed similar sentiments. “This road has been closed for months, but we knew it would reopen. I am grateful to ArcelorMittal Liberia for this good initiative. This marks the beginning of more collaboration with the City Corporation.”
Though primarily designed to support AML’s operations, the bridge also serves the wider public, including logging companies, transporters, and residents of Buchanan. Its restoration eases congestion, improves safety, and boosts commercial activity.
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s investment in the 2.5km overhead bridge is a strong example of how responsible corporate citizenship can address public infrastructure gaps, promote economic development, and support national progress—even beyond the limits of a concession agreement.
