The Barbados Ministry of Transport and Works has unveiled an ambitious infrastructure agenda, announcing plans to initiate up to 20 road repair projects between January and June 2024. The revelation came from Santia Bradshaw, Barbados Labour Party (BLP) candidate for St Michael South East, during a political rally in Oistins, Christ Church on Tuesday evening.
Bradshaw highlighted the comprehensive scope of ongoing infrastructure development, citing the substantial $250 million Scotland District road project as a cornerstone initiative. She specifically addressed longstanding concerns in Christ Church constituency by confirming Lodge Road has been prioritized for repairs after being a persistent community grievance.
Infrastructure progress reports indicate significant achievements already underway, with 15 road projects completed in the Scotland District region, another 15 currently in progress, and 30 additional projects in advanced design phases. The minister also confirmed completion of soil stabilization work in the White Hill area.
The extensive road rehabilitation program receives substantial funding through a BDS $100 million (approximately US$50 million) financing arrangement with the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF – Corporación Andina de Fomento). This international funding has enabled infrastructure improvements spanning multiple parishes, including Yorkshire in St Philip, Prior Park in St James, and Gibbons Terrace in Christ Church, with additional works in Cane Garden and Shop Hill.
Addressing inevitable inconveniences caused by construction activities, Bradshaw emphasized the necessity of temporary disruption for long-term progress. “There may have been disruption, and there continues to be disruption, but Barbados must understand there is no country in the world where you can get progress without disruption,” she stated, affirming the government’s commitment to essential utility upgrades and infrastructure modernization.
The minister credited the BLP administration’s strategic financial management for enabling these infrastructure investments, noting that despite inheriting a challenging economic situation seven years ago, the government pursued debt restructuring while simultaneously securing global financing to revitalize the nation’s road infrastructure and neglected bridge projects.