Public Works Minister Jache Adams says he understands public frustration with road conditions, but adds that crews are working ‘as quickly as they can’
The public’s patience over potholes may be wearing as thin as some of our road surfaces. Nevertheless, the Government is thanking the community for its tolerance.
Jache Adams, Minister of Public Works and Environment, says he understands the public’s frustration.
In a statement released today, he adds that ‘”we know people are tired of seeing potholes, and tired of feeling like the roads are not where they should be.
“Our crews are out there working at full capacity, and they are doing as much as they can, as quickly as they can, weather permitting.”
The Ministry has also confirmed that road paving works have returned to Spanish Point, and we understand the next focus will be on repairs in the East End ahead of installing the new Swing Bridge into St. George’s.
Hopes for swifter progress on road repairs are fading due to the delayed arrival of the new asphalt plant equipment, which Minister Adams has said is being held up in the US.
Originally set to be operational by now, the Ministry affirmed today that it’s not expected to arrive on-island until the end of the summer.
When the new plant is up and running, the Ministry expects it will provide “a more reliable asphalt supply and support a steadier paving programme, helping to reduce the delays caused by breakdowns with the existing plant.”
These comments from the Ministry come as a taxi driver lamented road conditions in a message to media.
They highlighted specific areas of concern on Middle Road, South Shore, and Trimingham Hill roundabout, adding that residents and visitors alike endure unacceptable driving conditions.
Urging the Government to prioritise road repairs, they added that “taxi drivers, in particular, are disproportionately affected…
“We spend 10 to12 hours a day on these roads… The ongoing damage to our vehicles is significant, resulting in excessive maintenance and repair costs.”
Customs duty was recently dropped on selected motor vehicle parts to support the automotive service sector – although the Government acknowledged that savings passed on to motorists would vary depending on the type of repair required.
Meanwhile, Minister Jache Adams wants the public to keep reporting potholes by emailing potholes@gov.bm, or using the GovAlert app.
The Ministry thanks the public for its patience, and urges caution on the roads – especially after rainfall.
