Works and Housing Minister Maria Browne has announced that the first tranche of a US$100 million road rehabilitation loan will be accessed "within a matter of weeks," signalling an accelerated push to upgrade Antigua and Barbuda's national road network.
According to Antigua News Room, Browne made the announcement at the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) manifesto launch held at the American University of Antigua Conference Centre.
"A loan of $100 million is already secured to continue the redevelopment of All Saints Road and rehabilitate roads and drains nationwide, the first drawdown of which will be accessed within a matter of weeks," Browne told supporters gathered at the event.
The minister framed the investment as a central component of the party's "Renaissance" agenda, arguing that road infrastructure is fundamental to economic growth and national development.
"Across this country, from our busiest highways to our smallest communities, we have taken decisive action to rebuild and modernize our road network," she said, pointing to ongoing works already visible in several areas.
Browne cited a number of major roads that have already benefited from government investment, including Sir George Walter Highway, Friars Hill Road, Anchorage Road, Valley Road, and Factory Road. She said the programme has delivered measurable improvements to mobility and safety across multiple communities.
"Our extensive road works programme has already reached communities across this nation, bringing relief, improving safety, and restoring pride," the minister said.
While crediting progress already made, Browne acknowledged that significant work remains ahead, with the newly secured financing expected to expand the pace and scope of ongoing repairs and upgrades.
"We know much has been achieved, but we are mindful that much is to be done," she said.
Browne also drew a direct link between infrastructure investment and everyday economic realities, casting road development as essential to lowering costs and broadening opportunity for residents and businesses alike.
"Roads are economic lifelines. They reduce costs, improve safety, support business and connect opportunities to every doorstep," she said.
The minister was emphatic that the government's approach prioritises continuity over experimentation. "We're not experimenting, we are expanding a system that is already working. The proof is in the pudding," she added.
The road rehabilitation programme is positioned as a cornerstone of the ABLP's re-election platform, alongside housing expansion and broader community development initiatives.
