$248M Kwakwani Airstrip to be completed this week

…residents to benefit from improved safety, connectivity

According to an update provided by the Ministry of Public Works, completion of the new $248 million Kwakwani Airstrip is expected to be finalised by November 8.
The new facility, a Department of Public Information (DPI) report said, will enhance access to the mining and logging community while addressing safety concerns that have previously prevented or limited some airlines from operating in the area.

According to the report, the new 2,500-foot-long and 50-foot-wide airstrip now features an asphalt surface, designed to improve durability and extend the runway’s lifespan – a major transformation from the previous grass patch surface. The project is being executed by Associated Construction Services, with the supervision of the Ministry’s engineers.
When operational, the airstrip is expected to significantly improve connectivity for residents, businesses, and essential services in the Upper Demerara-Berbice Region, and also unlock new opportunities for tourism and trade in the mining and logging town.

The project was previously hindered by persistent rainfall but Minister Edghill had assured residents at the time that once weather conditions improve, work will resume to ensure the timely and safe completion of the project.
He also took the opportunity to acknowledge the effort of the local council in securing the site by installing a fence to keep animals off the airstrip.
In addition, all road constructions within Kwakwani are said to be executed by small contractors from the area.