The Ministry of Communications and Works is advising residents, businesses, and motorists that relief from ongoing construction-related disruptions is on the horizon, with asphalt paving works scheduled to commence in the Sea Cows Bay area on Friday July 10.

Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer confirmed that paving operations will begin in the vicinity of the Anglican Church and progress westward. This initial phase is specifically designed to address the dust, uneven road surfaces, and travel challenges currently affecting residents, businesses, and road users along this corridor.

"We understand the considerable inconvenience that residents, businesses, and motorists have experienced throughout this phase of the project, particularly due to dust and traffic disruptions," the minister said. He added, "While some construction-related challenges will remain as work progresses, we are delivering on our commitment to provide meaningful relief. Beginning July 10, we will lay the first asphalt layer to stabilise the roadway and significantly reduce the dust that has affected daily life and travel in the area."

The minister explained that a two-layer paving approach will be used to ensure the construction of a durable, high-quality roadway capable of serving the Territory for many years. The initial three-inch asphalt base course will provide immediate road stability and eliminate the primary source of dust, while allowing contractors to continue essential infrastructure works, including the installation of sidewalks, curbs, and drainage systems. Once these works are completed, a two-inch final surface course will be applied to achieve the finished roadway standard.

Honourable Rymer stated, “Our objective is not simply to provide a temporary solution, but to deliver a modern, resilient road network that will benefit residents for decades to come. Achieving that goal requires us to address critical elements such as drainage, road foundations, and other supporting infrastructure alongside the paving works. We appreciate the public's continued patience and cooperation as we balance the need for timely delivery with our commitment to quality and long-term value."

While the commencement of asphalt paving will provide substantial relief, the motorists are advised that the initial paving layer may not immediately extend to the final curb height or roadway width in some areas. This is necessary to accommodate the ongoing civil works that form part of the overall road improvement project.

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The Ministry of Communications and Works is dedicated to ensuring the continued development and maintenance of public infrastructure in keeping with international standards so that public utilities are reliable and affordable in support of an enhanced community life for every resident and visitor in the Virgin Islands.