 Physical work has officially commenced on the Kalisak Bridge Reconstruction Project. Financed through a 37 million Eastern Caribbean dollar grant from the Government of Japan, this transformative project is touted as a gesture of goodwill and friendship between Japan and St. Lucia. Minister for Infrastructure, Port's Energy and Labor, Hon. Stephen St. King, says the project will help strengthen key infrastructure while stimulating economic activity in St. Lucia at a time of global crisis. As part of the project's first phase, construction has commenced on a detour road and the St. Lucia Electricity Services Limited, Lucilek, has also begun utility relocation. Upon completion of the project, the new Kalisak Bridge will reduce bridge closures due to flooding and stabilize the volume of transportation by widening and lengthening the existing bridge. Additionally, it is expected to strengthen socio-economic development and make the arterial road more resilient against natural disasters. The Department of Infrastructure has assured that the construction of the new bridge in Kalisak is being undertaken by international experts at global standards and the Department will maintain supervision and oversight during all phases of execution.