Dr Clarence Pilgrim

The government will issue certificates of commendation to members of the team behind the Booby Alley redevelopment, project chairman Ambassador Clarence Pilgrim announced Thursday.

Speaking at the handover of the 150-unit Pelican Court housing development, Pilgrim said the recognition would acknowledge those who helped bring the project to completion after years of planning, relocation and construction.

“The government will be issuing certificates of commendation for your part in this success story and your part in building this legacy project,” he said.

Pilgrim recognised the contributions of engineers, surveyors, contractors, utility personnel and administrative staff, along with the building teams, heavy equipment operators and truck drivers involved in delivering the development.

He also thanked the officers who coordinated the relocation of former Booby Alley residents, accommodation providers who housed displaced households and residents who adjusted to temporary surroundings.

The project required cooperation across several government institutions. Pilgrim acknowledged the Ministry of Works, Ministry of Legal Affairs, Development Control Authority, Land Registry, Antigua Public Utilities Authority and other participating agencies.

He singled out committee members who had served alongside him since 2018: Joy Dublin, Colin Edwards, Anthony Richardson, Kim Hodge and Nigel Francis. He also recognised Misha Bryan for coordination efforts and thanked other past and present members.

Pilgrim said the undertaking had tested the team’s patience and resolve, citing resistance during the relocation process and disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He recalled occasions when committee members and supporting workers faced verbal abuse, stones and bottles, but said cooperation and perseverance ultimately kept the project moving.

The chairman also paid tribute to people associated with the community and project who did not live to see its completion, including project team member Corey “Father Bear” Wilkins.

Pilgrim stressed that residents’ participation had been essential to the redevelopment and said their welfare remained central as the transition continued.

“Your patience, your questions, and your participation helped shape this undertaking,” he said.

Pelican Court, financed through an approximately EC$50 million grant from China, replaces the former Booby Alley settlement in St. John’s City West, Antigua and Barbuda.

Pilgrim said the next stage would require clear maintenance arrangements, transparent management and cooperation among neighbours to preserve the development for future generations.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Booby Alley redevelopment team to receive certificates of commendation.