“Children from Albouystown go to West Ruimveldt Primary and this bridge is a great relief for them because, during rainy weather, people used have to hop and skip down the dam. So, now they have a bridge, they are happy.”
This was the sentiment of Roy Chapman, one of the Laing Avenue residents, who believes a recently constructed bridge that links Laing Avenue and La Penitence, will play a critical role in students getting to school on time, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI).
The $3M bridge, built through a joint effort by the Ministry of Communities and the Mayor and City Council, is the first of its kind for the community, DPI said.
Several residents, including Chapman, benefitted from employment during the construction phase. As part of the contract, 50% of the labour had to be sourced from the two communities.
Donna Gittens, who has been living in the area for over 30 years, said the construction of the bridge was one of the best developments in the community to date. “The bridge is a good thing because it has joined the two communities. It has provided easy access over and through because, before, we had to walk right away round. This bridge was in the making for a very long time so we are glad, it has done this community well,” Gittens stated.
City Councillor responsible for the community, Trichria Richards said the construction of the bridge was a direct call from the residents, DPI reported.
“Residents of the two communities had held consultations with us; asking for a bridge to be erected there. They said it would provide easier access between the two communities and the movement of goods and services. They are very happy about this particular development and the government is committed to ensuring that we provide services and infrastructural development in different communities,” Richards said.
