Residents of Diamond to see major road expansion

A major road expansion project has been launched at First and Third Avenue Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara.

When completed, the expansion will facilitate accessibility and promote safety for area residents and those who use the roadways. Part of the road upgrade will include designated lanes for pedestrians and cyclists.  

The expansion of First Avenue by approximately 900 metres is expected to cost $309 million. Upon completion, it will serve as an alternate route for commuters during the other expansion projects.

Over on Third Avenue, the road is being widened to facilitate rest areas on both sides to allow drivers to eat, rest or park without impeding vehicular traffic.  

This project will cost $113 million and is estimated to be completed in eight months. Once completed, the critically important drainage system in that area is expected to improve.

On Tuesday, the Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, met with residents and contractors at the project sites where he outlined the work plan and his expectations. 

The minister stressed the importance of public engagement to ensure there is cooperation during the construction period.

Community leaders also received a copy of the Bill of Quantity in order to monitor the timeline of the project from beginning to end.

“It is the responsibility of the contractor and the ministry’s representative on the ground to inform the residents in the correct manner of what is happening in the area. I will not tolerate any contractor being abusive to residents,” Minister Edghill warned.

Project Engineer, Kester Hinds explained that the project at both Frist and Third Avenues will be linked.

“A few years ago, we also started a road just off north of Guyoil Gas Station. We will be connecting that road with First Avenue,” Hinds explained.

This connection will be made via a bridge which will join both roads, ensuring easy accessibility for commuters.