Contractors are racing against the clock in a bid to get all roads open in time for the opening of school on Monday, however at least one major roadway may not be complete in time for September 3, according to Deputy Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis.
"I am pleased to advise that, all things being equal and no major unforeseen difficulties, like the arrival of heavy rain being experienced, and based on the paving schedule as presented to the Ministry of Public Works and Urban Development by the contractor, it is proposed to open up all roads within the NPRIP (New Providence Road Improvement Project) for traffic on Monday for school opening, with at least the first coat of asphalt being applied," Davis said shortly before he took reporters on a tour of key parts of the project yesterday. "I caution, though that the schedule for initial paving on Bernard Road is for Saturday, September 1, with Sunday as a backup day.
There is still the possibility that Bernard Road may have to be closed for a few days if unexpected difficulties are experienced, although like you, I sincerely hope not." Other challenged areas included Prince Charles Drive, Village Road and Soldier Road, but the work along those roads have progressed significantly over the summer months.
Davis, who is also the minister of public works and urban development, also pointed out that police will be assisting by directing traffic when the schools open. And while all roads will be open soon, the work will not be complete. Davis noted that in a lot of cases a second layer of asphalt will have to be poured. Additionally, ancillary works will have to be done. The minister said approximately 7.2 miles of the 15.7 miles of contracted road have only the first layer of asphalt.
All roads are expected to receive the final coat by the end of October. Davis revealed during a similar tour in July that the works would be completed by October 31. However, he said the handover of the project will not be done until January. In the meantime, Davis said the government is working to ensure less disruption to road users and business owners where the works are being carried out.
The NPRIP is pegged to cost $206 million when complete, however Davis said the contractor, Argentinean firm Jose Cartellone Construcciones Civiles (JCCC), has managed to save some money. He was unable to say yesterday exactly how much money the government will save. A figure is expected to be calculated once the work is complete. Any savings would likely come as welcome news to the government, as the cost overruns associated with the project are estimated to be $93 million. In 2008, the Ingraham administration signed a $119.9 million contract with JCCC to carry out the work.
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