Major infrastructure works are set to begin on several of Barbados’ roads from next week, with projections that the improvements will be completed by Christmas.
On Friday, Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Works and Water Resources (MTWW) Santia Bradshaw identified the roads earmarked for rehabilitation under the Inter-American Development Bank-funded project.
Under the $43 million Road Rehabilitation and Improving Connectivity of Road Infrastructure Project, the MTWW has contracted C.O Williams Construction Limited to execute work on Carmichael Road, St George, from the Boarded Hall Roundabout to Turnpike Intersection with Highway 4, and Hothersal, St Michael from the Clyde Walcott Roundabout to Lears Roundabout.
Infra Inc is the contractor for the sections of Highway 6 from Henry Forde (Newton) Roundabout to Searles Roundabout to Six Roads, St Philip; and Belair Road from Crane Roundabout to Sam Lord’s Castle, St Philip.
“During the construction phase, there will be full rehabilitation of the road surfaces, improvement to drainage, bridges, culverts, signage and pavements. This should redound to improved safety and a reduction in transportation and travel costs,” Minister Bradshaw said during a technical tour and site visit of roadwork projects.
“With the assistance of the Inter-American Development Bank, one of Barbados’ key development partners, this project will initially start with five roads but the total scope of work will include an additional four roads which will commence over the course of the next few months.”
Minister of Transport, Works and Water Resources Santia Bradshaw and Turks and Caicos Minister of Physical Planning Akierra Missick.
Bradshaw added that while residents and motorists will be inconvenienced for the duration of the construction, the goal is to improve the condition of Barbados’ roads.
The Minister said MTWW and its contractors will share the traffic management plan via traditional and social media, as well as liaise with residents and the travelling public at every stage.
Project Manager at MTWW Dave Scantlebury said work on the five roads is expected to be completed in six months.
“So, we are expected to be completed by Christmas this year,” he said.
“You always expect disruptions. What we have done is we have had two public meetings and the public is aware that there [are] going to be disruptions. But what we are going to do is to work with the public, take your feedback, and we will try to monitor and make changes if necessary,” Scantlebury added.
He explained that Carmichael Road will be the first to be touched next week, with works to begin on the others over the course of the following weeks.
Scantlebury said there has been special interest from private stakeholders in the Carmichael area, where the old trailway is located.
“Private interests are looking at this area and saying ‘let us promote active mobility’. By active mobility, I mean walking and cycling,” he said.
anestahenry@barbadostoday.bb
