In a proactive step to advance the ongoing rehabilitation of Dennis Street, Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, recently convened a meeting in the Ministry’s boardroom with vendors currently operating along the corridor in the vicinity of ‘C’ Field, Sophia.
The primary objective of the engagement was to establish a clear and mutually beneficial path forward, ensuring that the vendors’ economic activities remain completely undisrupted as critical roadworks continue.
During the discussions, Minister Edghill announced that within two weeks, the vendors will be smoothly transitioned to a newly constructed, designated tarmac prepared specifically for them by the Ministry. To guarantee fairness, a transparent lottery system will be utilised to allocate the new vending spaces, with the Ministry offering additional transition support on a needs basis.
Emphasising the project’s strict timelines and the necessity for swift cooperation, Minister Edghill stated:
“Once you pull your number for your spot, you must move to the tarmac by the following day because the road will be handed over to the contractor and all hindrances in the path of the project will be removed for the continuation of the road.”
Beyond the immediate logistics of the relocation, the Minister underscored the importance of establishing a high standard for the new vending area’s aesthetics, challenging the business owners to elevate their operations.
“This can’t be a shanty town operation. Therefore, I encourage all of you to utilize the Development Bank loan to beautify your space as a long-term goal for your respective businesses,” he reaffirmed.
The vendors responded positively to the directive, pledging their full support for the upcoming relocation exercise and welcoming the financial initiative pitched by the Minister to help grow their enterprises.
The relocation exercise is a necessary component of the wider infrastructural transformation taking place in the Sophia area. Dennis Street is currently undergoing a major upgrade from the Eastern Highway heading east to Red Road (also known as ‘E’ Field). This is being executed simultaneously with ongoing works on the internal main access points for various fields, including B and C.
Upon completion, this major upgraded artery will boast two widened lanes, significantly improved drainage systems, and the complete rehabilitation of several bridges along the alignment.
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