Repairs at Darrell’s Wharf and the railings at Flatts Bridge are to be awarded to contractors next week.

Other “shovel ready” infrastructure works put out for quotes under the Government’s stimulus programme are works on Artemis buildings, highway fencing works, the entrance to Elbow Beach, and construction of a plant inspection building for the Botanical Gardens.

Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, the Minister of Public Works, gave the updates this morning in the House of Assembly.

The programme has $13.36 million allocated for small and medium sized contractors to boost the island’s economy.

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Public Works statement.pdf

Colonel Burch said most of the improvements “will not add further burden to government operational expenses”, but would “boost employment numbers in the wake of the economic downturn sparked by the Covid-19 pandemic”.

There were 98 submissions for jobs by February 15, with 67 companies approved and pre-qualified to work with the Government.

Colonel Burch said that many of the contractors had never worked for the Government before and often faced challenges with cashflow.

He added: “In light of this, we have arranged with the Accountant General’s Department to accelerate the payment schedule to every two weeks – noting that those who owe government money must engage in a payment plan in order to secure the work.”

⋅ To read the minister’s statement in full, click on the PDF under “Related Media”.