Private sector to maintain roads

Imbert said the proposed highway between San Fernando and Princes Town may signal the beginning of private sector participation in the operations and management of roads throughout Trinidad and Tobago. The minister made the announcement at the opening of the $11.4 million Gasparillo Bypass Road at Reform Village. The road links Marabella, Tabaquite, Reform Village, Williamsville and Piparo with direct access to the Sir Solomon Hochoy Highway.

Reiterating the Government’s intention to reduce traffic congestion, Imbert said designs for the San Fernando/ Princes Town highway have been completed and tendering for the project would begin within the next two or three months. The minister also noted that the highway would meet international standards and may involve private sector project management in both the construction and operation.

“Serious consideration is being given to making this road the first public-private partnership project in Trinidad and Tobago. If our recommendations are accepted, this will involve the financing, construction, operation and maintenance of the new highway by the private sector by way of a concession from the Government.

“It will truly bring Trinidad and Tobago into the 21st century in terms of innovative approaches to the financing and construction of new roadways,” Imbert said.

The 11-kilometre highway, intended to reduce travel time between Princes Town and San Fernando by 15 minutes, will also have a number of interchanges and link roads for easy access to the various communities between the two districts.