By Samuel Gillis
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill recently met with residents of various communities along the East Coast corridor to address concerns related to the ongoing construction of a new four-lane highway along the Railway Embankment.
Taking a consultative approach, Minister Edghill engaged with residents in Cummings Lodge, Industry, Better Hope, Beehive, and Blygezight to understand their concerns regarding the construction project.
While acknowledging the inconveniences caused by the construction, the minister assured residents that the government is committed to working with them to minimize disruptions.
Addressing concerns about dust pollution in Beehive, Minister Edghill outlined a systematic approach, including the deployment of water trucks to sprinkle water at the construction site twice daily.
Additionally, residents of Dutch Four affected by the construction will be compensated for damages to their properties.
Regarding the upgrading of community roads, Minister Edghill explained the government’s countrywide program to improve community roads, citing over 4,000 projects completed nationwide.
Currently, 300 roads are being upgraded on the East Coast, prioritizing roads leading to schools, places of worship, community centers, main traffic areas, and densely populated residential areas.
The East Coast Road Project encompasses the rehabilitation of the existing public road from Belfield to Orange Nassau, spanning 5.3 kilometers.
Furthermore, the project includes the construction of bridges, culverts, and drainage networks, along with a bridge across the Hope Canal.
Minister Edghill’s engagement with East Coast residents demonstrates the government’s commitment to transparent communication and community involvement in infrastructure development projects.