President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Tuesday continued his East Bank Demerara consultations, engaging residents of Grove/Golden Grove as the government advances its Model Village Initiative to create safer, greener and more resilient communities.
The initiative will deliver a comprehensive upgrade to the community through improved infrastructure.
This is inclusive of the drainage systems, roads, walkways, street lighting, recreational spaces, landscaping and other amenities to enhance residents’ everyday experiences.
During the engagement, President Ali explained that the initiative is rooted in people-centred planning, ensuring that development reflects the priorities of those who live within the community.
“It gives me great honour and privilege to be here as we continue this process of development based on people’s priority. Development that is fundamentally integrated into community life,” President Ali said.
He noted that communities thrive when families have access to safe surroundings and opportunities that support their growth.
“A community is made up of the richness of our diversity, the richness of our views, the richness of our ideas, the richness of the ecosystem, the environment that we live in, and the richness of the infrastructure,” the President said.
Technical assessments carried out by engineers, planners and representatives from various government agencies have identified areas requiring attention as part of the long-term development plan for Grove/Golden Grove.
Meanwhile, Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally said the initiative represents a direct investment in residents’ surroundings and future.
“We want to see your community look green. We want you to be proud when you step out of your gate and you walk down the street, seeing beautiful trees, a clean carpet and a clean road,” Minister Ally said, as he guided residents through the proposed plans and outlined the vision for the community’s modernization.
The proposed works include the installation of additional fire hydrants, street lights, drainage improvements, sidewalks, hard shoulders, community signage, playgrounds and beautification measures.
Grove/Golden Grove covers more than 552 acres and comprises over 3,100 households.
It has experienced significant growth over the years, creating the need for expanded infrastructure to support residents and future development.