PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI), Patrice Gumbs Jr., recently announced several key infrastructure and housing initiatives aimed at sustainable development on St. Maarten. The announcements include major road rehabilitation on Billy Folly Road and a public consultation for the St. Maarten Wastewater Management Project.
Minister Gumbs confirmed that roadworks on Billy Folly Road, commonly known as Pelican Road, will commence on Thursday, November 13th. The project, executed by Wynwood Road's infrastructure, is expected to be completed by Friday, December 5th, pending favorable weather conditions. A partial one-lane road closure will be in effect from Monday to Friday, between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., for the duration of the works.
This project is a notable example of a public-private partnership, with a coalition of local businesses and stakeholders contributing $496,500 to supplement the government's $94,000 investment. "In the governing program's entry for VROMI, private-public partnerships are regarded as vital for the future development of St. Martin," Gumbs stated, expressing gratitude for the stakeholders' commitment to corporate social responsibility. He noted that similar initiatives for other infrastructure projects are currently being negotiated.
Additionally, the Minister invited all residents to a public consultation for the St. Maarten Wastewater Management Project (SWMP). The event is scheduled for Wednesday, December 10th, at 6 p.m. at the Bel Air Community Centre. This $25 million project, co-funded by the St. Maarten Trust Fund and the government, aims to expand the sewage network, particularly in the Cul-de-Sac area.
The goal is to reduce reliance on septic tanks and enhance the operation of the ATLH Road Wastewater Treatment Plant. The project will "support protecting public health and safeguard St. Maarten's surface water, groundwater and coastal areas from pollution, helping to preserve the island's natural environment and support a sustainable tourism economy," said Minister Gumbs. He emphasized that public feedback is vital to shaping the project's final design.
On the housing front, the Minister confirmed that the government is awaiting the transfer of funds from the Netherlands for the purchase of a parcel of land known as Remainder Belvedere Estate. In anticipation of the funding, the necessary advice for the purchase is being processed for approval. Minister Gumbs also noted that the new housing policy is nearing finalization and regular meetings with the Housing Foundation are ongoing to address inventory and future projects.