Nassau, Bahamas – Public Works and Transport Minister the Hon. Neko Grant assured residents of the communities affected by the New Providence Road Improvement Project (NPRIP) that their opinions are vital to the success of the project.
“As taxpayers who wish to be assured that public monies are being wisely spent, and as residents or business owners of these communities in which road works will commence, I assure you that your presence and input are essential to the success of this undertaking,” said Minister Grant.
Residents and business owners attended a town meeting organized by the Project Execution Unit of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. The town meeting, held at SuperClubs Breezes Resort, Cable Beach, was organized to disseminate information, receive feedback and address queries regarding the road works.
Two months ago the Government of The Bahamas signed a $120 million contract with Jose Cartellone Construccciones Civiles of Argentina, South America for the re-launch of the completion of the road works. The project is expected to be completed in 33 ½ months and is funded by The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). It includes approximately 15.7 miles of roads, 19 corridors and five major intersections.
Minister Grant said his Ministry is “committed to the execution of this project in strict adherence to the specifications.”
“We also committed to execution of this project in a manger that would create minimal discomfort and inconvenience to residential and commercial property owners, and the general public who may utilize these routes on a regular basis. Furthermore, we promised to make every effort to keep the public informed at every stage of the project’s progress,” added Mr. Grant.
The town meeting specifically addressed issues relevant to the first three corridors to be constructed. They are:
-Corridor four (Bethel Avenue extension) at a cost of $8.6 million
-Corridor five – the road to be constructed from John F. Kennedy Drive/Farrington Road junction through Rock Crusher Road onto West Bay Street at a cost of $5.1 million
-Corridor 18 which commences at this point on West Bay Street and continues along to Saunders Beach at a cost of $2.3 million
-Section 24 at the Bethel Avenue/John F. Kennedy Drive junction at a cost of $6.8 million
Following the meeting, information booths manned by representatives of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport were opened for residents and business owners to raise questions and express their concerns.
“In addition to the lodging of verbal complaints or queries at these information booths, participants are encouraged to put their concerns in writing,” said Minister Grant. “In this regard, the written submission should be addressed to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Works and Transport to which a response will be provided at the earliest opportunity for your records.”
Also in attendance at the meeting were Health Minister Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis, Minister of National Security the Hon. Tommy Turnquest and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Senator the Hon. Michael Barnett.
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Caption
202315 – The Hon. Neko Grant, Minister of Public Works and Transport addresses a Town Meeting organized by the Project Execution Unit of the Ministry on the New Providence Road Improvement Project. Colin Higgs, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Works and Transport is pictured seated. (BIS PHOTO/Letisha Henderson)