CABINET NOTES- **The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda welcomed the Management Team of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) for a comprehensive briefing on the progress of several key infrastructure projects currently underway.**
The team reported that construction of the reverse osmosis plant at Barnacle Point is now 50% complete, while the Ffryes Beach desalination facility is operating at full capacity, producing up to one million gallons of water per day to support the nation’s growing demand.
In addition, the Cabinet was updated on the advancement of the China-Aid Antigua and Barbuda Pipe Rehabilitation Project, supported by an EC$1 million grant from the Government of the People’s Republic of China. Under this initiative, extensive pipeline upgrades will be carried out in the following areas:
* Factory to Buckley Booster
* Parham Booster to Cassada Gardens
* Moravian Church Liberta to Patterson Tank
* Golden Grove Triangle to Grays Hill
Further progress was reported on the following critical infrastructure projects:
* Valley Road Project – ongoing, with completion expected by July 18
* Point Project – in progress, with completion expected within six weeks
* Church Pond Project – 95% completed
* Crabbs Plant Site – removal of existing steel frame structure underway to facilitate construction of the new Crabbs Plant (formerly referred to as the Bethesda Plant)
* Fort James Ultra Filtration Project – fully completed
The Cabinet reiterated its policy that APUA must maintain close coordination with the Ministry of Works for the repair and installation of water infrastructure, and for the subsequent resurfacing of affected roads.
To this end, APUA is in the process of developing a standards document outlining best practices for pipe replacement and road reinstatement, which will be submitted to the Ministry of Housing and Works for approval.
Additionally, APUA has committed to purchasing specialized equipment and recruiting and training personnel to ensure efficient pipe repairs and the proper restoration of major roads.
The Cabinet was also informed that both APUA and the Ministry of Works will prioritize improvements to key roads in St. John’s in preparation for the upcoming Carnival season, ensuring that infrastructure is safe, reliable, and in optimal condition for residents and visitors alike.