MEMBER of Parliament for Gros Islet, Kenson Casimir, this week emphasised the importance of the ongoing projects in the constituency, which he said is nearing completion
He revealed that the construction of the Gros Islet Recreational Center is nearly finished, despite delays caused by Hurricane Beryl. The constituency group is coordinating with the Ministry of Tourism and the contractor to ensure the project’s completion.
Casimir also discussed plans to upgrade the Gros Islet waterfront, despite challenges like vandalism. He noted that the Recreational Center is 98% complete.
“The contractor is awaiting the final issuance of the extended contract to complete the works at the GI Recreational Facility… and we expect to finish the recreational part of the project very soon,” Casimir told reporters at a media briefing on Monday.
Regarding the Waterfront on Bay Street, the Gros Islet MP stated, “We have a plan to develop that area from the Seaview area down to the Recreational Facility, to attract more tourists in a more sustained and enhanced way.”
The recent tropical storm damaged the sea wall at the Recreational Facility, leading to a proposal for wave breakers along the waterfront to prevent future damage.
“We are living in a global climate that is continuing to develop… and we know that ‘freak events can happen, no matter how many breakers you put along the water shores. If a hurricane comes in, there is not much you can do,” Casimir declared.
The Gros Islet playing field is about 80% complete, with plans to install bleachers and stands, and the roofing is expected to be finished soon.
“We have the bleachers and the stands being worked on… and we’re expecting the roofing to come in towards the middle or end of October,” Casimir explained. “We are looking to host events at the Gros Islet Mini Stadium and name the stadium and other facilities for our young athletes.”
Major infrastructural projects and road repairs are planned, with over 100 roads identified for repairs, “to commence a comprehensive road network programme in the constituency of Gros Islet.”
He added, “We have completed many roads so far, especially in the Beausejour area, but there is still a need for more roads to be constructed in Gros Islet, and we have ongoing work projects in place.”
Casimir said that work on the Gros Islet Police Station is progressing well, and they anticipate the relocation of police officers to the new station soon.
“Work on the Gros Islet Police Station is continuing in earnest…and I am satisfied with the pace at which the station is being constructed,” he added. “From all indications, this is happening very well and on time. We look forward to moving the police officers from the Gros Islet Human Resource Centre and the other areas (that) they are stationed to right now.”