M/Y Baca Hits Simpson Bay Bridge Operation Booth

During the bridge opening at the Simpson Bay Lagoon for incoming maritime traffic on January 8 at 5 p.m., M/Y Baca struck the Simpson Bay Lagoon Authority (SLAC) operations booth and caused severe structural damage, according to the Port St. Maarten Group (PSG). Wires leading to operations consoles were also damaged.

There were no injuries to the bridge operator. PSG personnel conducted a preliminary assessment, and the bridge remained in operation for maritime traffic and continued as normal for the remainder of the day.

However, the Simpson Bay Bridge will be temporarily closed for maritime, motorized, and pedestrian on Thursday, January 12 at 4 a.m. “The closure is in connection with the removal of the damaged operations control booth,” PSG shares. Heavy equipment will be in operation in the area at the time.