Asphalt Paving Begins in Sea Cows Bay
Asphalt paving will start in Sea Cows Bay on Friday, July 10, bringing relief from months of dust and difficult driving conditions. The Ministry of Communications and Works says a two-layer paving system will stabilise the roadway while further civil works continue.
ROAD TOWN, Tortola — Residents, businesses and motorists in Sea Cows Bay can expect noticeable improvement in road conditions beginning Friday, July 10, when the first layer of asphalt is scheduled to be laid, the Ministry of Communications and Works has announced. Paving operations will start near the Anglican Church and progress westward along the roadway.
The initial work aims to reduce dust, smooth uneven surfaces and make travel safer and easier after months of disruption caused by ongoing road improvement works. Minister for Communications and Works Honourable Kye M. Rymer acknowledged the hardships the public has endured during construction. "We understand the considerable inconvenience that residents, businesses and motorists have experienced throughout this phase of the project, particularly due to dust and traffic disruptions," Rymer said. "Beginning July 10, we will lay the first asphalt layer to stabilise the roadway and significantly reduce the dust that has affected daily life and travel in the area." The ministry said a two-layer paving system will be used.
The first stage is a three-inch asphalt base course intended to stabilise the surface and cut dust levels while contractors complete critical infrastructure work, including sidewalks, curbs and drainage systems. Once those supporting elements are in place, a final two-inch surface course will be laid to finish the roadway.
Officials cautioned, however, that the first asphalt layer may not immediately reach final curb height or full roadway width in some sections. This is necessary to allow ongoing civil works to continue as part of the broader improvement project. Construction will therefore continue after the initial paving until all supporting infrastructure and the final asphalt surface have been completed.
The Government says the project is designed as a long-term investment in the Territory’s road network, aiming to deliver a modern, resilient road that will serve residents for decades. For Sea Cows Bay residents and business owners, the first asphalt lift should bring welcome relief from dust and improve day-to-day travel, even as crews complete the remaining elements of the upgrade.
A specific completion date for the overall project was not provided in the announcement. The ministry has asked for the public’s continued patience and cooperation as work proceeds and pledged to balance timely delivery with quality and long-term value.
Primary source: Guavaberry