The West End Community Centre, which was damaged by the hurricanes of September 2017, is being repaired. Photo: VINO

The revamping of the West End Community Centre is being done by the Government of the Virgin Islands in collaboration with the EU and PAHO. Photo: VINO

According to Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Andrew A. Fahie (R1), the West End community will soon enjoy the benefits of the modernised and resource-equipped West End Community Centre. Photo: VINO/File

Quality Construction Limited has been given the contract to repair the hurricane damaged West End Community Centre. Photo: VINO

The community centre was damaged by the hurricanes of 2017.

“Good news! Finally, the West End Community will soon have a modern centre equipped with resources that will be used as an emergency shelter,” The Premier stated on a Facebook post on Sunday, October 18, 2020.

“As Premier, Minister of Finance, and First District Representative, I am pleased that works have commenced on this project. The centre is a valuable resource to members of the community. Additionally, it serves as an emergency shelter for persons in the area and will be of great benefit for 2021 hurricane season and beyond.”

Project details

The Premier also gave a breakdown of how the new facility will be revamped.

“The works on the West End Community Centre/Shelter include replacing the porch overhang with concrete roof, replacement of windows and doors, replacement of shutters, upgrade of the kitchen, upgrade to bathrooms on the second floor, construction of new bathroom facilities on the ground floor, replacement of tiles on the internal staircase to non-slip tiles, construction of handicap ramp on both floors, development of green space, relocation of generator housing, construction of a new LPG gas tank housing, replacing of all lighting to LED lights, cleaning of the cistern, and remedial works on handrail and walkways,” he informed.

The territory’s leader also had words of gratitude to the European Union (EU).

He stated: “Great thanks to the European Union (EU) for providing the funding and Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) for its commitment to provide technical oversight for the implementation of this project and for also providing financial contribution towards the project by covering salaries for their technical staff assigned to assist with the implementation of the project.”

The project was projected to commence since earlier this year, Premier Fahie had previously announced.