Prime Minister Gaston Browne says concrete roads being constructed under his administration now cost less per mile than the asphalt roads built by the previous United Progressive Party (UPP) government — despite the passage of over a decade and general increases in construction costs.

Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne criticized what he described as “wasteful spending” under the former administration, pointing to asphalt road projects that cost up to $7 million per mile. “Those are not even concrete roads — they’re asphalt,” he said. “Now, interestingly, our concrete roads cost less per mile than those asphalt roads that the UPP built probably 12 or 15 years ago.”

The Prime Minister framed the comparison as evidence of better value for money under his leadership, stating: “I want the people to understand the kind of value they’re getting from my administration.”

Browne went on to praise the Ministry of Works and its current leadership under Minister Maria Browne, describing the performance as “almost revolutionary.”

“I have never seen Public Works employees as motivated as they are now — ever in the history of this country,” he said. “They’re managing over 20 projects islandwide. The kind of pride with which they work is astonishing.”

According to the Prime Minister, new control systems have reduced material wastage, and employees are now working beyond standard hours, including at night. “You’re not seeing that kind of waste right now, which means there are better control systems in place,” he said.

Browne also commended Minister Maria Browne’s hands-on approach, stating that she holds regular departmental meetings, sets clear agendas, and remains actively involved in strategy and execution. “She goes to work every day. She’s not a minister missing in action like Wilma Daniel, who never went to work,” he added.

He acknowledged that some may view his praise as biased, given that Minister Browne is his wife, but insisted that his remarks were objective. “I have to tell you I’m very impressed, and I say this objectively. She’s very disciplined, very methodical, and very organized.”

The Prime Minister concluded by emphasizing that strong leadership and discipline at the ministerial level have made a tangible impact on the country’s infrastructure development.