APUA will establish its own internal public works department before June 2026, Minister Melford Nicholas announced.
The pledge came during the commissioning of a new two-million-gallon-per-day reverse osmosis plant at Barnacle Point.
Nicholas said the initiative aims to end decades of road disruptions caused by utility repairs.

For years, APUA has dug up newly paved roads for water main and pipeline work.
This problem dates back to the 1980s, when politician Charlesworth Samuel tried to solve it.
Nicholas recalled Samuel’s words about ending “one of the most protracted problems” in Antigua.
However, the cycle persisted despite government efforts over the decades.

Now, Nicholas is taking responsibility to finally solve the issue.
He stressed that timing is critical as the government invests hundreds of millions in road rehabilitation.
Otherwise, the public might see repairs and new construction being repeatedly disrupted.
The problem recently drew attention when APUA crews cut across Michael’s Avenue shortly after road work finished.

The new department will be vital as APUA starts a $60-million re-piping program funded by China.
The project will replace nearly 100-year-old pipes along All Saints Road, the Burning Flames Highway, and other key routes.
APUA CEO John Bradshaw emphasized the urgent need for modern pipelines.

Nicholas said creating the department will require capital investment in equipment and staffing.
Still, he insisted that solving the problem remains a top priority.
He promised that APUA will meet the June 2026 deadline, putting the plan on public record.
Nicholas added that his reputation as a demanding minister means the initiative will face close scrutiny.

In conclusion, the internal public works department will improve road safety and reduce repeated disruptions.
The move is expected to streamline utility repairs and align with ongoing national road improvement projects.
Nicholas affirmed that APUA will achieve higher standards, ensuring smoother infrastructure development for the nation.

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