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by pltm
(PLTM) - In view of the upcoming start of the school year in September, concerned members of the public are questioning whether the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) will be completed on time.
On Monday, August 8, during a press conference, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. Natalio Wheatley sought to respond to these claims by assuring that the construction will be completed on time to accommodate the Territory’s students when the academic year commences.
“I think that the Recovery Development Agency (RDA), who is managing the project, and the contractors are doing an excellent job,” Premier Wheatley said.
Despite experiencing delays in the shipment of windows and doors, he affirmed that he is confident that the deadline will be met.
“There may have a slight delay, but we are still on track for September. Many persons said that it was impossible, and I think they are really doing the impossible right now with the quick work to get the school up and ready,” Dr. Wheatley noted.
The redevelopment of the school has been a collaborative project between the private sector and individuals as donated resources have been used to ensure that the project is completed within its intended time frame.
In addition, the construction companies which were awarded contracts by government, have been working in earnest on night and day shifts throughout the various stages of the project, and according to strict timelines to ensure its completion.
Over $11 million in total have been awarded in contracts for the redevelopment of the school that was damaged by 2017 hurricanes. Quality Construction Limited was awarded the contract for Building A – Technical Block at $4,336,427.12.; Metro Construction Limited was awarded the contract for Building B – Classroom Block North at $2,496,690.84; Autland Heavy Equipment Co. Limited was awarded the contract for Building C-Classroom Block South at $3,721,766.59; and Sunleaf Construction and Northam Construction Limited a joint venture was also awarded a contract for Building D – Admin Office Block for $888,104.66.
In addition to the construction of the buildings, it is expected that the school compound in its entirety will also have to be made fit for purpose, including adequate physical and technical resources on site resources to efficiently facilitate learning.
