Matthew’s Ridge airstrip upgrade to match Ogle capacity – Edghill

Public Works, Juan Edghill on Friday conducted a series of critical infrastructure inspections across the Barima-Waini Region with his first stop at the Matthew’s Ridge airstrip in the Matarkai sub-district.

Upon completion, the upgraded airstrip will measure 4,000 feet in length and 80 feet in width, featuring a reinforced eight-inch-thick pavement. Edghill announced that this upgrade will elevate the facility to a Tier 1 aviation hub, capable of handling capacity equivalent to the Eugene F. Correia International Airport at Ogle.

“Everything that can land at Ogle-including Caribbean Airlines, InterCaribbean Airways, and the flights servicing Suriname-will be able to land here and take off when we are finished,” Edghill stated.

“Furthermore, the new equipment acquired by the GDF can land here. This is a priority for us, and it is also a matter of national security.”

The project is currently being executed by a workforce of over 60 residents from the village. During a technical debrief, the minister addressed challenges regarding inclement weather and staff absenteeism. He issued a stern charge to the workforce, emphasizing that while the government prioritizes local employment, efficiency remains paramount.

“I’m hoping that the instances of absenteeism are a thing of the past. I am making it very clear: if we have a repeat of that, I am authorizing the Special Projects Unit to bring workers from other parts of Region 1 as a last resort,” Minister Edghill told the workers.

“The contractor here is you. We didn’t bring in anyone from outside. The Government of Guyana has employed the villagers under the supervision of the Public Works Ministry. Let us make our region proud and deliver this within the shortest possible time.”

Following the inspection, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the supply and quality of materials on-site. “I’m pleased to have the assurance that all the materials needed for the work are in place, and the skills needed are largely in place,” he affirmed.

Matthew’s Ridge serves as a vital transportation hub for the manganese mining community and surrounding villages. The new runway is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, support economic expansion, and drastically improve access to essential services for residents.