River wall contract signed in Canefield

A contract valued at nearly $800,000 was signed for the construction of a river wall at the Canefield Housing Scheme.

The contract signing ceremony took place at the office of the Canefield Urban Council.

The contract was awarded to Ken Esprit, and the project is expected to be completed over a twelve-week period.

Minister of Public Works and Ports Senator Miriam Blanchard said: “It is with great pleasure that I am here today to witness the signing of a contract for a new river wall in the River Estate, Canefield area.

"I think though this is a short rather informal ceremony we have already heard how important his project is to a number of residents.”

She said that this project has been deemed as extremely urgent by the engineer assigned to that area.

An investigation had previously revealed that the embankment in the area was collapsing, posing a threat to the homes.

Blanchard said that the commencement of this project is testament of government’s commitment to the wellbeing of its citizens.

“This quick action by your government highlights our commitment to the wellbeing and safety of citizens of this country never doubt your government’s commitment to work for the best interest of all Dominicans.

“On completion of this river wall it will protect all of the homes along the river allowing occupants to sleep more peacefully during weather events and flooding of that river."

Rayburn Blackmoore, MP for Mahaut, said he is confident that the contractor will complete the project on time.

"One has to take into consideration that we are approaching the hurricane season and I would like to see that project itself is executed with dispatch and at the same time not compromising the quality and integrity of the work to be undertaken," he added.