BHS Project Boosts Local Construction Industry
BASSETERRE — Construction of the new Basseterre High School is creating opportunities that could strengthen St. Kitts and Nevis’ construction industry well beyond the project itself, officials said this week, as work continues on the modern campus.
Contractor Mark Maloney said work is progressing steadily on the campus, which will include two academic buildings, an auditorium, a gymnasium and extensive athletic facilities. He said foundation work for Building B has been completed, construction of Building A is underway, and a 400-ton crane is expected to arrive to begin installing precast structures shipped from Barbados.
“So, we ship approximately 15 to 20 flat racks of pre-cast concrete a week from Barbados,” Maloney said. “We have a 400-ton crane arriving next week to start the erection of Building B, at which point that crane stays here for about nine months erecting all of the buildings, from B, A, auditorium, and then over to the gymnasium. So, we are moving very quickly. It’s an honor, it’s a pleasure, and we’re happy to be here. So, things are going very well.”
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, speaking recently, said the project has also opened discussions about establishing a local precast concrete facility to support future school, housing and other major infrastructure projects. Addressing reporters, Drew pushed back against claims circulating about the project’s funding and labor.
“I’ve heard a lot of propaganda — propaganda that money going to Barbados, propaganda that local people are not working,” Drew said. “I brought you all here so you all can be part of the positive messaging and to crush the propaganda that is being spread. I expect you now to use that in your write-ups and your stories so that the true story with respect to the Basseterre High School and its construction can be had by our people.”
Public Infrastructure Minister Konris Maynard said investments in the National Quarry have increased its capacity to supply materials for large-scale construction across the federation. He said the quarry underwent a full overhaul, including a new primary crusher, secondary crusher, screen, trucks and excavator, to meet rising demand.
“We needed to ensure that we could produce the aggregate, and so we made a significant investment,” Maynard said, crediting Cabinet for approving the funding without hesitation. “Right now, my quarry manager tells me how much product they are requesting almost on a daily basis. It is significant, and all of it is being produced here in St. Kitts at our quarry.”
Officials say the combined investments in the school project and the national quarry are intended to build long-term capacity within the local construction sector as the country pursues further school, housing and infrastructure development.
