Prime Minister Gaston Browne has directed Cabinet ministers to accelerate infrastructure development across Antigua and Barbuda, setting a target of completing at least 75 percent of the nation’s road network within the next four years.
The goal was outlined during Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting as Browne reminded ministers of the commitments made to voters and urged them to focus on delivering tangible results before the end of the government’s term.
According to Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant, the Prime Minister emphasized that the administration’s agenda must be driven by projects that directly improve the lives of residents.
“In outlining key priorities for the remainder of the term, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s ambitious infrastructure programme, noting that the administration is committed to completing no less than 75 percent of the nation’s road network within the next four years,” Merchant said during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing.
The roadworks programme forms part of a broader infrastructure agenda that also includes expanded street lighting, environmental beautification projects, improved public spaces and preparations for Antigua and Barbuda’s hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting later this year.
Cabinet also approved a series of community enhancement initiatives, including the installation of new directional, road and traffic signs throughout the country, funded through the Tourism Fund. Officials said road markings will be repainted and bus stops upgraded as part of efforts to improve public infrastructure and the appearance of communities.
Merchant said Browne has called for immediate action on the programme.
“It’s an immediate action that the Honourable Prime Minister says is required,” Merchant said when asked about the timeline for the improvements. “Because we cannot speak about renaissance and have simple amenities like these in disrepair.”
Funding for the upgrades will come primarily from the Tourism Fund, with support from various government ministries and agencies, including the Transport Board and the Ministry of Tourism.
The Cabinet also reaffirmed plans to continue removing derelict and abandoned vehicles from communities as part of its efforts to improve public spaces and community aesthetics.
Browne told ministers that the government must remain focused on delivering measurable improvements across the country, stressing that voters expect results from the administration’s development agenda.