Minister of Works, Maria Browne, has outlined an extensive plan to overhaul roads, drainage, and government-owned buildings in St. John’s, as she addressed last night’s public consultation on the redevelopment and revitalisation of the capital.

Speaking at the consultation, Minister Browne acknowledged the scale of the challenge facing the Ministry of Works, noting that longstanding issues with both road conditions and drainage infrastructure must be addressed together to ensure lasting solutions.

She explained that the government is working closely with the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) to coordinate a comprehensive programme that will see the full replacement of aging water pipes before major roadworks begin. This approach, she said, is intended to prevent repeated road damage caused by burst pipes after repaving.

“In recent times, we have repaved roads only to have pipes burst shortly after, forcing us to dig them up again,” Minister Browne said. “We do not want to continue that cycle. The plan is to repipe St. John’s fully, then move road by road with proper resurfacing and drainage reinstatement.”

St John’s Consultation at John E. St. Luce Conference center (photo by Office of the Prime Minister)

Minister Browne revealed that many of the existing drains in St. John’s were poorly constructed decades ago and are now deteriorating, with rotting wooden supports collapsing into the drains and restricting water flow. She said the flawed design has also made it difficult for the Central Board of Health (CBH) to properly clean the drains, contributing to persistent odour and sanitation issues.

“As the Prime Minister indicated earlier, there needs to be a complete removal and rebuilding of these drains,” she stated. “They must be properly engineered and accessible so they can be effectively maintained going forward.”

In the short term, the Ministry of Works has been replacing damaged drain grills, many of which have collapsed due to vehicles driving onto pedestrian sidewalks. Minister Browne noted that the grills being installed meet international standards and are comparable to those used in major cities such as New York and London, but are not designed to support vehicular traffic.

She said discussions are underway with Minister for Urban Development Rawdon Turner to introduce enforcement measures, including fines, for drivers who damage infrastructure by parking or driving on sidewalks. The ministry also plans to install planters in key areas to discourage vehicles from mounting sidewalks while adding greenery to the cityscape.

Minister Browne further announced that Cabinet has approved APUA’s procurement of new pipes, with installation expected to begin within the next two months. Once the repiping is completed, road scarification and resurfacing will follow.

In addition to roads and drainage, Minister Browne disclosed that Cabinet has approved renovations, repainting, and repairs to government-owned buildings in St. John’s. Estimates are currently being finalised, and work is expected to begin shortly, contributing to an overall facelift of the capital.

She appealed to business owners and property owners for patience during the transition period and encouraged them to report damaged grills or infrastructure to the Ministry of Works.

“This is a team effort,” Minister Browne said. “We’re counting on the public to help us help you, and together improve the safety, appearance, and functionality of St. John’s.”

She indicated that she would be available to answer questions following further presentations at the consultation.