Tashieka Mair, Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
THE GOVERNMENT has approved $46 million for a drain cleaning exercise and the rehabilitation of roadways, which were damaged in recent heavy rains in Montego Bay, St. James.
Dr. Fenton Ferguson, Minister of State in the Ministry of Transport and Works, said on Friday that work would include the controversial North Gully, which overflowed its banks and caused severe flooding in downtown Montego Bay.
His comments were made during a press conference at Sandals Montego Bay following a tour of sections of north Trelawny and St. James. "In the long-term, it was recommended that an additional $60 million should be spent on the North Gully for extension of paved sections. Based on discussions I have had in this visit, it is clear to me that what was recommended as a long term solution for the North Gully, is now almost an immediate need," Dr. Ferguson said.
RESOLVING ISSUES
He added: "It is going to be my own recommendation that instead of looking at that from a long-term perspective, that it should be brought in and up front as a way of resolving some of the issues that have surrounded the North Gully and also the South Gully."
On October 25, several businesses along St. James and Harbour Streets were forced to close their shutters after heavy rains associated with the Tropical Storm Alpha caused the North Gully to overflow.
"We are also aware that with the recent rainfall there has been significant increase in the number of potholes in and around St. James. In Montego Bay in particular, we will be undertaking 7,000 metres of patching, that process is already taking place," Minister Ferguson added.
In an effort to alleviate traffic congestion on the Flankers main road, especially when it rains, $2.7 million would go towards drain cleaning and extension of pipes from the wetlands to the sea. An additional $600,000 will go towards cleaning drains in the Bogue area.
During the first quarter of 2006, repair work is expected to begin in Spot Valley, Irwin Loop and Green Pond. Other roadways that will be rehabilitated include Montpelier, Adelphi ford to Somerton and Rose Hall.
