Better Roads in Dominica – Prospect of Increased Economic Growth

We are finally experiencing the anticipated rehabilitation of roads from Roseau to the Melville Hall Airport, and from Roseau to Portsmouth. Fast and furious was the groundbreaking event, which took place today, with the immediate commencement of work on the Portsmouth road. According to (DNO), the work will be conducted by a Chinese team, but several Dominicans are expected to be employed. This $100 million project is a great economic boost for the island as a whole. The project is expected to last almost two years…. that will certainly be a good, steady period of employment for those Dominicans who have been employed, to assist with the Portsmouth project.

Development of the island is well on its way, and we look forward to the safe and continued efforts of those who are involved in the process, to see these many projects come to fruition. We are all anxious to see Dominica move up to standards with other developing islands, especially in the areas of safe and accessible roads, better paying jobs and increased economic growth. The standard of living has improved over the many years; therefore, news of continued development is very encouraging to those who are willing to remain on the island, or return to the island to live and participate in the forward movements of our nature island.

Better roads as well as additional roads are necessary, but emphasis must be placed on providing proper drainage, because the island is prone to a lot of heavy rainfalls and frequent landslides, as well as ocassional sea erosions, which are usually very destructive to the roads. The Chinese builders are professionals, who we trust, will not take shortcuts, but will create the best and most durable roads, suitable to our tropical climate and eminent storms. Ultimately, proper road maintenance by officials as well as travelers, will also be necessary to ensure the safety and longevity of the roads, after they have been constructed.

I am thankful that we are finally building better roads, which will lead to improvement in our traveling time, encourage more visitors to extend their stay on the island, increase business development, and create stronger economic growth, while our lovely, nature island continues to improve and become more globally recognized.