The Rose Hall Town Council in Region Six is preparing to roll out a series of long-awaited upgrades to its drainage systems, walkways, and minor roads, following a significant increase in government subvention to municipalities from $18 million to $50 million this year.
Speaking with the media earlier this week, Mayor Dave Budhu said that the expanded 2025 work programme will feature 12 key projects. These will primarily address long-standing issues with minor drains and street infrastructure that have plagued residents for years.
“It’s full speed ahead,” Mayor Budhu said. “Our residents will begin seeing tangible benefits from the increased subvention. We’re focusing on works that directly impact comfort, accessibility, and safety in our communities.”
Among the planned works are the reinforcement of the municipal office compound, including the installation of fencing for added security and a 40 kVA generator to ensure continuous public service during frequent power outages.
“We want to make sure that when residents come to the office, they aren’t turned away because of a blackout,” the mayor explained.
Drainage upgrades, including repairs to a reinforced concrete drain on 3rd Street, in the western Williamsburg area, and new concrete drains along Sharple Street and Pageant Street, each extending about 35 metres. These works will include covered drains and walkways for added safety and durability.
Street drainage with concrete covers on Scott School Street, Crawford Street, Newmarket Street, Fingal Street, Passage Street, and Pageant Street.
According to Mayor Budhu, many of these cross streets are too narrow for vehicles to pass through.
“By putting the drains down the centre and covering them, we create additional road space. That’s how we’ve made some previously inaccessible streets usable by cars,” he said.
Repairs to culverts and minor bridges, to fix existing defects and ensure structural stability.
Widening and upgrading street approaches, especially at St. Paul’s, Sir David, Martin, and George Streets, where steep and uneven terrain has been a hazard for years.
“Residents have been complaining bitterly about these approaches,” the mayor stated. “Now we have the funding to finally address them.”
Meanwhile, the mayor acknowledged that budget constraints limited past councils, but with the increased allocation, the council can now deliver more comprehensive and lasting improvements.
“We’re not just doing patchwork, we’re doing things properly and making sure the work is done right,” he added.
Additionally, Budhu noted that the upgrades are already approved, and work is expected to begin shortly. He said residents should take comfort in knowing that their concerns have been heard and are now being addressed.
