Twenty years of frustration ends – Bridge over Rio Roldan under design

In meetings this past month, COFOA leaders learned from the Minister of Public Works and the Chief Engineer that the bridge over Rio Roldan is finally under design. Construction is expected to begin by the end of 2017. The bridge will benefit more than 500 families from the small communities of El Número, San Marcos, El Carmen, Los Castillo, Letrán, 14 de Julio, La Tequera and Rio Roldan. During the winter, families wait hours for river waters to subside so they can cross to San Marcos Lempa for work, school, medical care, and purchase of essential goods. One child died when the river swept him downstream. Originally promised 20 years ago, this bridge is a symbol of the community’s fight for life and dignity. We are grateful for Anglican pastor, Fr Antonio Lopez, and community leader Juan Ramon Navarro who provided critical leadership to community members who persisted in scores of meetings with local, department and national officials over the past three years.