Sinanan says: PoS walkover delivered within budget

MINISTER of Works and Transport Rohan Sinanan said he was pleased with the quality of work of contractors in their work on the Wrightson Road Overpass as it was done within budget.

Speaking at the opening of the overpass last week, Sinanan said the project which began in July 2018 was originally expected to be completed by March last year.

He said the delay caused some concern for the ministry and contemplated firing the contractors and re-tendering the project to another company so it could be completed in time for this year’s general elections, but was pleased he chose to keep the current company on board.

“My philosophy is that you can’t run a country from election to election so we decided to stick with the contractor and work with them and I’m happy that although there was a delay, the project came in within budget.

“You recall this project there were tenders as high as $19 million on it. It was awarded to RJB building and civil engineering contractors ltd for $13.9 million, some were saying that it could not be built for that price, others were saying that compared to the other walkovers it was definitely a good price.

“This project although delayed makes a significant statement for us in Port of Spain,” he said at the opening last Friday. Sinanan said the quality of the work done on the walkover was an example of the work that would be continued with the proposed revitalisation of Port of Spain.

He added the construction of a walkover was an important step towards developing the capital city by making it not only more appealing but also more accessible to locals and tourists alike.

“What this project will do is to bring that pedestrian interaction in the inner city. You can now cross the from end to end of the Brian Lara Promenade.

“What will happen here is improve connectivity. It is much more pedestrian friendly. This is proof the government has faith in downtown Port of Spain.”

Sinanan said he was dedicated to improving the quality of infrastructure in Port of Spain and announced that he also issued a challenge to his technical staff at the Ministry of Works to come up with a plan for a walkover at City Gate in South Quay.

Port of Spain Mayor Joel Martinez said he was pleased with the construction of the walkover and was confident the project would boost the morale of the city-goers and engender new attitudes of pride towards the capital.

“It’s about time the city starts tio get the spotlight where we can focus on developing the citizens of Port of Spain. We can have many more moments like this as we continue to revitalise the city of Port of Spain.”

The walkover is equipped with an elevator, stairs and a ramp for the differently abled.