Bids for the construction of a replacement Swing Bridge in the East End are under review, MPs heard today.

Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, told the House of Assembly that the ministry has reached an agreement “in principle” with a landowner at Stokes Point in St George’s on a purchase required for the project.

He said the site, costing the Government about $100,000, was earmarked as the most “suitable landing point” for the new bridge.

Several procurement processes were undertaken to kick-start the project, including hiring a contractor to refurbish the former Bridge Operator’s Hut and a contract for an engineering firm to provide independent oversight.

“Perhaps most importantly, Government invited experienced contractors to bid for construction of the new bridge,” Mr Adams added.

Noting the “specialised nature” of the project, he said the Government expected international interest and “actively encouraged overseas companies to partner with Bermudian businesses wherever possible”.

The move would create local opportunities while allowing Bermudians to gain skills and experience from a major infrastructure project.

An update on the bridge construction schedule will come after procurement is completed and contracts are in place.

Mr Adams reminded MPs of the bridge’s mechanical issues in the past.

The new structure will use a modern hydraulic system to raise and lower the bridge, with emergency valves that can be released to lower the bridge if problems arise.

The older structure will remain in use while the new crossing is being constructed. Once the replacement is fully operational and open to traffic, the decommissioning of the prior bridge will commence.

In response to a question from Vance Campbell, the Shadow Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure on alternatives should the ageing bridge prove unsuitable, Mr Adams said: “We do have the likelihood of failure is minimal.”

Structural engineers “have consistently stated” that the bridge should be able to last, Mr Adams said.

However, he noted that “anything can happen” and that contingency plans were in place.

In other updates, Mr Adams said roadworks are under way in the area and temporary traffic changes have been introduced.

A smaller roundabout is being built near the existing structure to replace the larger roundabout and free up the space needed for construction of the new bridge.

Traffic entering St David’s is using a one-way route along St David’s Road, while motorists leaving the area are travelling along Southside Road through Kindley Field Park.

Mr Adams said a new bus lay-by has been constructed across from the Double Dip Restaurant and will be used once the new roundabout and associated traffic changes are completed.

“We expect all of these traffic adjustments to be completed during October of this year, weather permitting,” he added.

Mr Adams acknowledged concerns raised by residents about the level of lighting along Southside Road through Kindley Field, and said the ministry was working to address them.

He said other considerations had to be taken into account first, adding: “We are working through those issues and will provide further information once that work has been completed.”