Ministry of Works to construct by-pass in coming days

The Project Implementation Management Unit (PIMU) within the Ministry of Works is overseeing the construction of a by-pass to facilitate the construction of a major culvert on Sir Sydney Walling Highway (SSWH).

In November, the PIMU conducted several stakeholder engagements with residents, schools, hotels, other businesses along the SSWH route, including the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board, Bus Association and Emergency Medical Services. These community outreach meetings occurred prior to the works initially scheduled between November and December.

The previous route suggested that road users take Collins Road as a diversion. Residents voiced their concerns with this longer route and cited traffic delays, schools and businesses in particular being negatively affected.

The Ministry of Works PIMU in collaboration with the Contractor, C O Williams, responded quickly to find solutions to mitigate the heavy impact being felt by its stakeholders. It was decided that works be postponed until a suitable alternative route could be provided.

The proposed revised by-pass will now be constructed adjacent to existing culvert and will allow traffic to divert around the construction site, and avoid the long route previously considered. Traffic delays and access to businesses and schools will not be affected as previously envisaged.

The public is advised to proceed with caution on SSWH during the upcoming days as heavy-duty equipment will be in operation. There will be flag persons guiding the flow of traffic, and all road users are encouraged to follow the directions to ensure safety.