KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Noel Arscott, yesterday launched work on the US$1.8-million project for the rehabilitation of the access road to the Riverton City disposal site.

The one-year road construction project, slated to be completed in September 2016, is being undertaken through grant funding from the Mexican Government. The contract for the undertaking was signed in June.

It will involve the building of a two-kilometre concrete roadway to improve entrance to and exit from the disposal site, and enable the necessary agencies to respond more quickly to emergencies.

The United Nations Office of Project Services (UNOPS) will provide project management and supervision services.

Minister Arscott said the use of concrete, which is stronger than asphalt, would eliminate the need for frequent repairs.

He informed that a steering committee has been formed to facilitate the smooth implementation of the project, noting that several residents will be employed during the construction phase.

Turning to the benefits of the project, Minister Arscott said it would address environmental concerns such as dust during dry periods and mud when it rains.

He said the efficiency of garbage collection for the Corporate Area, St Thomas and St Catherine will improve significantly, as truckers will have easier access to the site without excessive damage to their vehicles, and they will be able do more trips.

Interim Executive Director at the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), Col Daniel Pryce, lauded the ministry for improvements being done at the disposal site.

He noted that in addition to the construction of the road there are other developments being undertaken.

“A new fire suppressant system, which will help to minimise or end any major fire that might occur on the landfill, is being installed,” he informed.

Col Pryce said the NSWMA Administration building at the site is also being upgraded to host the landfill manager, who will supervise all workers, among other duties.

He informed that the scale that weighs trucks going in and leaving the disposal site is also being renovated.

“All these improvements…will greatly enhance the effective running of the landfill,” he said.