A landmark initiative saw 325 small contractors from Linden sign contracts worth $4.2 billion to upgrade community roads, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI).
The signing ceremony, held at the Watooka Guest House yesterday, follows the completion of a pre-qualification process last week and is part of the government’s nationwide community road improvement initiative.
DPI said that Prime Minister Mark Phillips hailed the occasion as historic, noting its potential to transform Linden and enhance the lives of thousands of residents.
The PM explained that though the initiative is part of the PPP/C government’s current-day transformative efforts, it also dates back to the administration’s term in 1992.
“We won the elections and we are delivering the goods and services promised to the people and we will continue to bring development to you the people of Linden and the people of every region in this country,” he stated reiterating the government’s longstanding commitment.
The Prime Minister urged contractors to deliver quality work, emphasising that improved roads will enhance Linden’s appeal as a tourism destination.
Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, described the initiative as a game-changer for small contractors, offering them opportunities to grow within the industry.
The newly introduced rating system enables contractors to secure projects without competitive bidding, ensuring equitable access.
“You are in the pot. So, this phase we will start with 325 and then we will do an analysis, maybe within a matter of days or a week we may sign on some more,” the minister pointed out.
In addition to the $4.2 billion allocated for community roads, Edghill highlighted that $8.8 billion was invested in Region Ten for road works.