Private sector contribute $496,000 for Billy Folly Rd work, govt $94,000

PELICAN--Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI) Patrice Gumbs has announced the scheduled commencement of road rehabilitation works on Billy Folly Road, commonly known as Pelican Road, in Simpson Bay.

The project will begin Thursday, November 13, and is expected to be completed by Friday, December 5, pending weather conditions. During this period, a partial one-lane road closure will be in effect Monday through Friday, from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The works will be executed by Windward Roads Infrastructure.

Minister Gumbs explained that the rehabilitation is being realized through a strong public-private partnership (PPP) model. The initiative has been made possible through the collaboration and financial contributions of local businesses and stakeholders, including Simpson Bay Resort, Flamingo Hilton, The Atrium, La Vista, Simpson Bay Suites, Baker Suites, Market Garden, SMTA, Hollywood Casino, Splash Jewelry, Aquamania, Tepui Residences, Dollar Thrifty, Buccaneers Beach Bar, Peli Deli, and Sunset Spa, who collectively contributed US$496,500. The Government of St. Maarten, through the Ministry of VROMI, provided an additional US$94,000 toward the project.

“In our governing program, public-private partnerships are recognized as vital for the sustainable development of St. Maarten,” said Minister Gumbs. “This collaboration demonstrates how the public and private sectors can come together to improve infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.”

The Minister expressed appreciation to all participating companies for their commitment to corporate social responsibility and acknowledged the support of Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina and Minister of TEATT Grisha Heyliger-Marten for their continued encouragement of partnership-based solutions to infrastructure challenges.

Minister Gumbs also announced that the Ministry is finalizing a formal framework to regulate and guide public-private partnerships for future infrastructure projects. “Given government’s limited financial capacity, these partnerships are essential to achieving our development goals. Similar initiatives are already being negotiated and will be shared with the public once finalized,” he stated.

The Ministry of VROMI thanks the public for their understanding and cooperation during the execution period and reminds all road users to follow traffic signs and exercise caution in the work area.

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