February 21, 2020

In partnership with Bridges to Prosperity (B2P), a team of twenty dedicated Balfour Beatty employees completed the construction of two new footbridges in Rwanda in December 2019. The two bridges, each over 50 meters in length, will support a combined total of 6,000 people in the neighboring communities. This project supports B2P’s commitment to building footbridges over impassible rivers so that isolated communities can access healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. Balfour Beatty shares this commitment having completed a total of four bridges and has plans to organize more build teams. 

Rwanda, known as the “land of a thousand hills”, relies on safe pedestrian passage to farmland, local markets, schools, and medical facilities to sustain communities economically and personally. Given the minimal dry season, crossing the Satinsyi and Kiruri Rivers are fraught with difficulties resulting in missed opportunities and even two recent deaths. The two new bridges now offer safe, year-round passage for local residents and increased opportunities for trade and welfare that will empower the communities. 

“The people of Balfour Beatty, from all areas of our investments, civils, and buildings units, are passionate about service, teamwork, and using their unique capabilities to help others in need. The development of our participation in the program has been inspiring,” said Mark Konchar, Balfour Beatty’s US executive sponsor.

With expertise ranging from logistics to safety and project management, the Balfour Beatty team was able to successfully complete the projects within the allocated two-week timeframe.

“Working with Bridges to Prosperity is as an opportunity to use our expert engineering and construction skills to support communities and enhance accessibility to critical resources,” stated Jennifer Rhoads, Balfour Beatty senior project manager, 2018 build team member and 2019 B2P build fundraising leader. “Thanks to our gracious and steadfast industry partners, the 2019 teams raised over $80 thousand each through fundraising activities and sponsorship from colleagues, friends and family. These funds directly offset cost of the builds.” 

Balfour Beatty has been supporting Bridges to Prosperity since 2015 with projects throughout Rwanda and Bolivia. Balfour Beatty is committed to supporting organizations and causes which can enhance the lives of people living without the essential infrastructure needed to access vital resources such as medical centers and schools. 

Learn more about the build team’s sponsors and experience by visiting the Balfour Beatty Bridges to Prosperity blog.