Disaster Reconstruction Authority granted Abaco crown land

Disaster Reconstruction Authority granted Abaco crown land
Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis. (BIS PHOTO/KEMUEL STUBBS)

NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis confirmed yesterday that private contractors will foot the bill to set up infrastructure in low cost homes built on crown land in Abaco.

Minnis said the government is following through on its commitment to provide crown land for the construction of low cost homes for Dorian survivors.

He explained the government had committed to putting in the necessary infrastructure, and as such, it would advance that cost towards the purchase of the individual’s home.

The prime minister addressed the state of recovery efforts on Abaco during his contribution in Parliament yesterday.

He said the Disaster Reconstruction Authority will stage a groundbreaking​ for a community centre in Central Pines next month.

Minnis said: “The jobs are there. The only stranglehold in Abaco are the accommodations but I have been assured by the Disaster Reconstruction Authority that they have gotten the proprieties already.

“The plots of land have already been granted to the DRA. They​ have assured me that they have completed the RFP and the government will provide its citizens with the land free of charge.”

He continued: “The government had also made a commitment to pay ​for the​ infrastructure. The DRA is inviting contractors to build these homes.

“What is so unique about this is the government doesn’t have the funds now to put in the infrastructure but the contractors will put in the infrastructure and build the homes.”

Minnis had indicated back in ​November that the​ government will provide free Crown Land on Abaco and Grand Bahama for the construction of low cost homes for Dorian survivors.

Hundreds of residents on Abaco and Grand Bahama were displaced after Hurricane Dorian destroyed their homes last September.