Connecting Southeast Liberia: The Story of the Sanquin River Bridge

Published on October 26, 2024 by AECC Communications

Mr. Wonkemie Zolia guides President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf during the dedication ceremony of the Sanquin River Bridge.

Mr. Wonkemie Zolia guides President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf during the dedication ceremony of the Sanquin River Bridge.

At Atlantic Engineering & Construction Company (AECC), we believe that infrastructure is more than just concrete and steel, it is a lifeline for communities. One of our most impactful projects to date is the design and construction of the Sanquin River Bridge in Sinoe County, a project that has fundamentally changed the landscape of regional trade and travel.

A Vital Link Restored

For years, the crossing at Sanquin District was a major bottleneck. The previous structure, composed of logs and dirt, was prone to failure and was eventually washed away in December 2009, leaving the southeastern region of Liberia isolated.

Partnering with USAID/Liberia and the Ministry of Public Works, AECC took on the challenge of building a permanent, resilient solution. Our team designed and constructed a 220-foot, four-span reinforced concrete bridge capable of handling heavy traffic and the harsh environmental conditions of the Sanquin River.

Project Highlights

Design-Build Excellence

As a category "A-1" contractor, AECC managed the full scope of the project, from initial design to final execution.

Strategic Collaboration

The project was a landmark effort funded by USAID with a contract value of over $2.2 million.

Engineering Standards

We applied best engineering practices to ensure the structure met the highest standards of quality and safety for the people of Sinoe.

A Presidential Dedication

The success of the project was celebrated at a high-profile dedication ceremony led by President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including the U.S. Ambassador to Liberia and the USAID Mission Director, highlighting the bridge's significance as a "dividend" of development for the nation.

Minister of Public Works, Samuel Kofi Woods, noted at the time that the completion of this bridge represented a turning point for infrastructure in the Southeast.

Our Ongoing Commitment

The Sanquin River Bridge stands as a testament to AECC's status as a 100% Liberian-owned business dedicated to the nation's "Vision-2030". We continue to leverage our expertise in road and bridge construction to build the foundation for Liberia's future prosperity.

Authored by: AECC Communications