E. P. Chet Greene has defended ongoing roadworks in St. Paul’s, telling residents the programme is part of a structured, long-term plan rather than a last-minute push ahead of elections.

Addressing concerns during a community meeting, Greene rejected suggestions that road construction is being rushed.

“We are not rushing to finish roads… we are starting roads on a planned approach,” he said, pointing to a phased rollout of infrastructure projects across the constituency and wider Antigua.

He said major works now underway form part of a broader national effort to upgrade key routes and improve connectivity, noting that several projects have been in progress for years.

“If you cast your minds across the nation… there have been road programmes ongoing for the last two years,” Greene said, adding that development has included upgrades to major highways and arterial roads.

In St. Paul’s, he highlighted the long-anticipated rehabilitation of All Saints Road as a central component of the current phase of works.

“Work has commenced on All Saints Road,” Greene said, describing the project as a significant step in improving transportation links within the constituency.

He added that the programme extends beyond main roads, with ongoing upgrades to secondary and community roads aimed at improving access for residents and businesses.

Greene also sought to reassure constituents about funding for the projects, indicating that resources allocated for roadworks are being used specifically for infrastructure development.

“The money is to fix the roads,” he said, emphasizing that financing mechanisms are in place to support continued improvements.

Residents raised concerns about road conditions and safety in some areas, prompting Greene to stress the importance of durable construction and long-term planning.

“What I’m trying to do is to see enduring solutions,” he said, noting that the use of more resilient materials is intended to extend the lifespan of the roads.

He also called on community members to play a role in maintaining infrastructure, particularly by avoiding damage to newly constructed roads.

The road programme forms part of a wider development agenda in St. Paul’s, with Greene maintaining that infrastructure upgrades are essential to economic activity and daily life in the constituency.