Phase One of the Maracas Beach Facility Improvement Project has been completed within budget, at a cost just over $61 million, despite challenges faced by the contractor - Coosal’s Construction Company Limited.
The project includes a 350-vehicle carpark, five bus spaces and eight spaces for handicapped people.
Speaking with the T&T Guardian yesterday at the handing over ceremony, Group Executive chairman, Sieunarine Coosal said the project faced numerous coordination and logistical challenges.
“It was never an option (to close off the area) and pedestrian traffic and public safety was a major element in the day-to-day planning of construction activities,” Coosal said.
Another major challenge, he said, was the unexpected inclement weather pattern and flooding.
Minister of Works and Transport, Rohan Sinanan praised Coosal’s for its timely delivery despite the challenging rainy season.
“There were many landslips but Coosal’s still stood out to bring the project within the time and budget…and we see the standards…this is not a simple contract, it is very technical to get material up here especially road paving material but we stand very proud that Coosal’s was able to deliver,” he said.
Coosal’s commenced works in May 2017 after construction company - Kall Co was terminated from the $120 million Maracas Beach Facility Improvement project, in June last year. An audit was ordered into the scope of works done.
Coosal’s contracted scope of works included but was not limited to the following elements; clearing and grubbing; relocation and utilization of client issued stockpiles; demolition of existing structures; excavation and fill; construction of access approaches; road widening; roundabout; carpark; drainage; pedestrian walkways and all ancillary works such as handrails; lighting; signage road and carpark markings.
NIDCO chairman Herbert George said that all major works would be completed by end of January. The new wastewater treatment plant will, however, be completed by May.