By Jessica Cox
MONROVIA – The Government of Liberia has announced a major infrastructure project aimed at improving traffic flow, addressing persistent flooding, and enhancing access to the Freeport of Monrovia through the rehabilitation of a critical road corridor in the capital.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah disclosed that an agreement was recently signed in Tokyo, Japan, between the Government of Liberia and Japanese partners for the implementation of the project.
According to the minister, the agreement was signed on behalf of Liberia by Deputy Public Works Minister for Technical Services Prince Tamba following a week-long engagement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The project, expected to be completed within 26 months, will focus on improving a strategic roadway linking the Freeport area to major commercial sections of Monrovia. Government officials believe the investment will significantly ease traffic congestion and improve the movement of goods from Liberia’s principal seaport to businesses and communities across the capital.
Minister Piah said the scope of work includes a reconfiguration of the existing road alignment, elevation of sections of the roadway, and the installation of modern drainage and stormwater management systems designed to permanently address flooding challenges that have affected the corridor for years.
The announcement comes as road construction activities continue on adjacent sections of the route. According to the minister, asphalt pavement work has already advanced from the Saint Paul Bridge corridor toward the Duala Market area, while additional work is progressing from the Freeport side toward the ramp point junction.
Government officials say the ongoing and planned road projects form part of a broader effort to improve transportation infrastructure within Monrovia and facilitate safer and more efficient movement for motorists and businesses.
In addition to road rehabilitation, the Liberia Electricity Corporation is undertaking street-light expansion along the corridor. Minister Piah said lighting infrastructure has already been installed along portions of the route, with further expansion expected in the coming weeks.
The government maintains that the road project and accompanying utility improvements are intended to modernize one of the capital’s busiest transportation corridors while supporting commercial activity and improving conditions for residents and commuters.
Officials expressed optimism that upon completion, the upgraded corridor will enhance connectivity between Freeport and central Monrovia while helping to reduce the flooding and traffic bottlenecks that have long affected the area.
