BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — The government has officially opened the newly reconstructed St. Peter’s Main Road, a major infrastructure project being hailed as a gateway to further development in one of the island’s fastest-growing communities.
The more than three-mile stretch of road had long been criticized as neglected under previous administrations. The recent works, carried out by Rock and Dirt Construction, included full road reconstruction, base stabilization, asphalt resurfacing, and the installation of retaining walls, curbs, sidewalks, and upgraded drainage systems — all part of a multimillion-dollar investment aimed at improving safety and accessibility.
“It is the opening of opportunity. It is proof that when vision meets will, progress is paved — literally and figuratively — for the people of St. Kitts and Nevis,” said Minister of Public Infrastructure, Konris Maynard, addressing the gathering.
He explained that upon taking office, the government made a commitment to build a nation that works for every community and every citizen. He noted that two major arteries — the St. Peter’s Main Road and the F.T. Williams East Road — had been neglected for years and required urgent attention.
The minister emphasized that the project forms part of the government’s broader Aggressive National Road Infrastructure Programme, which aims to modernize the Federation’s transportation network.
According to Maynard, over the last several years, the government has invested more than $80 million in road development across the island, including projects in Whitehouse Gardens, Shadwell West, Boyd’s View, Palmetto Point, Racecourse–Newton Ground, and Rollins–St. Paul’s.
“Each of these roads tells a story,”
he added.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew, who has long advocated for improvements in the St. Peter’s area, said the completion of the road marks a deeply personal milestone.
“From inception to completion, what makes me proud is that this project was delivered by a local company — Rock and Dirt — and of such high quality,” Dr. Drew said. “Their commitment was not just about getting another job; it was about helping to develop their country. That level of dedication deserves our thanks and recognition.”
Reflecting on his personal connection to the community, Dr. Drew recalled growing up in St. Peter’s and attending what was then the St. Peter’s Primary School, noting that poor road conditions in the past often put pedestrians, including schoolchildren, at risk.
Dr. Drew also recalled his frustration years ago when the island’s main road rehabilitation project bypassed St. Peter’s entirely — a decision that, he said, underscored the need for more equitable development across communities.
