The National Works Agency (NWA) says it is to replace the Ward River Bridge in St Thomas.

The structure, which is located along the main road between Morant Bay and Port Morant, is one of several structures that are to be replaced during 2016.

Communication Manager at NWA, Stephen Shaw, says during the next few days contractors will be establishing the site office and installing public facilities.

Shaw says come next Monday, work is expected to begin on establishing a detour for use by motorists.

He says that the scope of the works will involve the demolition of the bridge now in use, driving of piles, river protected works, construction of approach roads and the installation of a new 17 meters long bridge.

The new bridge will facilitate two lanes of vehicular traffic, as well as sidewalks and should be completed in six months.

The project will cost $57.6 million. 

Meanwhile, the NWA says it is also gearing up to replace the Leith Hall Bridge, which is also in a state of disrepair.

The agency say negotiations are far advance for this structure to be replaced.

Shaw says work continues on the Harbour Bridge, which was taken out of service last year, after it partially collapsed.

He says work on the structures form part of the multibillion-dollar, Major Development Infrastructure Programme.