Nassau, The Bahamas – Business owners on Baillou Hill Road north of Wulff Road received first-hand information on the New Providence Infrastructure and Improvement Project (NPIIP), specifically plans to commence construction of roadworks for the one-way system that will continue on Baillou Hill Road north to Duke Street.
The group met with representatives of The Ministry of Public Works and Transport on February 1. Senior Ministry officials included Elizabeth Keju, undersecretary; Khader Alikhan, coordinator of the New Providence Road Improvement Project; engineers Charlene Collie, Francis Clarke, Joy John and Shanique Albury, environmentalist, from the Project Execution Unit.
Representatives of Jose Cartellone Construcciones Civiles, contractor, were also present. Ms. Collie gave an overview of the project which is a component of the New Providence Transport Programme that is funded by The Bahamas Government and the Inter-American Development Bank.
She explained that the overall objective is to improve the road network by constructing new corridors and improving major intersections. Other objectives include enhancing landscaping, improving drainage and providing sidewalks (with handicap accessible ramps), street lighting, signage and a maintenance management system. The business owners were urged to be patient as construction moves into their area in sections of 1500 ft.
“We’re putting in new infrastructure including future utilities for cable, BTC, and Water and Sewerage, said Mr. Clarke. The roadways have buried, undocumented utilities that are close to the surface. These pose challenges that can delay the contractor’s work.”
“Safety is of paramount importance. The contractor has to work diligently so they don’t cut off life lines. We have done tests and there are challenges. We need your cooperation and assistance to complete the programme. We know the hardships and difficulties but we want to work with you,” added Mr. Alikhan.
“We are committed to completing the project,” said Ms. Collie. “We encourage you to do your part as we partner and work as a team. We urge you to watch our for traffic diversions and observe the detour signs.”
The business owners were told that there would be occasions when roads in their area would be fully closed with traffic diverted to side roads. However access will be granted to their establishments at all times and signs will be erected to indicate traffic diversions.
The business owners were urged to attend upcoming information meetings and utilise the hotline (number 302-9700) available to inform the Ministry of Works of any concerns.
By Kathryn Campbell
Bahamas Information Services
