Govt pumps $30M into Wismar, Mackenzie waterfront enhancement projects
The Government will soon release $30 million to begin the first phase of the waterfront enhancement project at Wismar and Mackenzie in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).
This was announced by Public Works Minister Juan Edghill on Friday during an engagement with several stakeholders at the Watooka Guest House to identify works that could be undertaken to modernise the waterfront area.
“Whatever we do must be able to impact the people of Region 10. It must bring immediate benefits to the people of Region 10. We cannot do development in a way that doesn’t bring impact, and the policy direction that we are governed by … whatever we do must answer the felt needs and the desires of the people, no matter how small it is,” the Minister said.
The consultation saw contributions from Regional Chairman Deron Adams, Linden Mayor Waneka Arrindell, Chief Sea and River Defence Officer Kevin Samuel; Engineer, Brigadier (ret’d) Gary Beaton; Project Manager Jermaine Braithwaite, among others.
Minister Edghill and other officials at the Mackenzie waterfront
Following the exercise, the team visited the prospective sites at Wismar and Mackenzie shores where works are expected to commence.
Engineers attached to the Public Works Ministry are tasked with crafting the enhancement proposal for both locations and that document will be delivered to Minister Edghill today.
A scene of the Wismar, Linden waterfront
The projects will include proper sanitary blocks, adequate lighting and recreational facilities. The Minister said all construction will cater for senior citizens and persons living with disabilities.
“The good news is that light is at the end of the tunnel. The $30 million waterfront development for Region 10 is on the chart for 2021 and within a very short period works will begin,” the Minister added.
Meanwhile, Mayor Arrindell related that among other enhancement projects, the municipality has put together a plan and scope of work to develop a children’s park along the bandstand route. The Council also wants to recommission the bandstand to host recreational activities.
Public Works Minister Juan Edghill and regional officials during a site visit to the Wismar waterfront on Friday
Government has made several commitments to ensure all ten administrative regions receive sufficient development in all areas including agriculture, employment, tourism, business and education.
Some $220 million was distributed last week in the region through the “Because We Care” and school uniform and supplies cash grants.
