construction projects now to get the economy going again.

The Bermuda Telephone Company yesterday announced plans to infuse $3 million into the Island's lagging economy by bringing forward plans for a new building at its St. John's Road site and renovations to existing buildings.

Sea-Land Construction started work on the project yesterday. Five sub-contractors will also be involved: Air Care, Bermuda Glass, ETS Construction, Smith and Sargeant and Universal Electric.

The project had been slated for later on, Telco general manager Mr. Ernest Pacheco said.

"But as a responsible local corporate company, Telco determined that now was the time to stimulate the economy and at the same time provide much-needed work to the construction industry,'' he said.

The Hon. David Saul last week had urged residents with planning approval for large and small construction projects to make a move.

He estimated there were more than 2,000 approved projects which had not been started yet.

Go-aheads could result in the employment of hundreds of out-of-work Bermudians and provide a boost for the struggling construction industry.

Dr. Saul said the recession seemed to be creating a sort of psychological roadblock to people starting building projects.

Mr. Pacheco said the new building would house offices for administrative and plant staff serving as a base for Telco workmen.