Ground to be broken for new farmers’ warehouse
Funding in the latest Budget will go towards breaking ground for a new Agriculture Services Centre, the Minister of Public Works and Environment confirmed.
Jaché Adams said yesterday the $2.5 million investment would modernise food production and enhance food security.
At the post-Budget press conference, Mr Adams said funds allocated to the ministry for 2026-27 would set the foundation for projects of “lasting benefits” to the community.
The ministry was allocated $90.9 million, an 8 per cent increase year-on-year.
Walter Roban, the former Minister of Home Affairs, announced plans for the new agriculture facility in 2024.
The 15,000 sq ft space will be built on Schools Drive, Devonshire.
Mr Adams said the project was in “the pre-preparation site phase” as excavation works have been completed. A Request for Proposals is expected within another month.
He said it would deliver “greater innovation, stronger local production and improved long-term stability in our food systems”.
He added: “Global events of recent years have reminded us that resilience matters. Supporting domestic agriculture is not optional, it is strategic.”
In other allocations, Mr Adams said a $9.4 million sum put aside for the replacement Swing Bridge at St George’s marked a “decisive” move.
An RFP will be issued within three weeks. Mr Adams was hopeful that a successful bidder would be in place by the summer.
Mr Adams turned to the $1 million allocation for the maintenance of private roads — a 2025 Throne Speech commitment.
He said: “This is not relieving owners of their responsibility, but ensuring that ordinary residents are not unfairly impacted by prolonged inaction.
“With the necessary legislative framework in place, this funding will allow the Government to step in where needed to improve safety and accessibility.”
Underused government properties including the Admiralty House ballroom and St David’s Lighthouse got $4.5 million set aside for their renovation, while $1.7 million was allocated for the restoration of public parks and lands, including the Botanical Gardens and beaches.
Mr Adams said $1.4 million would support rooftop solar panels on public buildings.
He said: “Reducing energy costs and supporting Bermuda’s transition to renewable energy is both fiscally responsible and environmentally sound.
“It lowers long-term operating costs and strengthens sustainability.”
• To see the minister’s remarks in full, see Related Media
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