THE Ministry of Public Works and Communication has invested $11M to rehabilitate the Lighthouse, the national monument situated in Water Street, Kingston, Georgetown. The edifice was erected by the Dutch in 1817 and rebuilt in 1830 to help guide ships into the Demerara River harbour from the Atlantic Ocean.
The 103 feet high octagonal structure is a famous landmark with its distinct vertical red and white stripes.
According to the Building Officer in the Ministry, Mr. Alvin Thorne, maintenance is currently underway, including repainting of the internal and external walls and rehabilitating the staircase.
He said there are plans to rewire the electrical system and redesign the landscape to include benches to accommodate visitors.
Explaining the need for the undertakings, Thorne said the paintwork was worn and cracks allowed the seepage of water into the building.
“It was in need of repairs and, this time, we will be using an epoxy based paint which is intended to last longer and prevent structural damage,” he informed, noting, however, that the stone work is still intact.
The contractor is Howard’s Construction and its Director, Mr. Andre Howard said the job is slated for completion within the next month but, depending on the weather conditions, could continue into December.
Thorne also revealed that, at a cost of $10M, the Cubana Memorial is currently under construction at the proposed site on the University of Guyana (UG), Turkeyen Campus.
He said the general idea behind the project, which is 50 per cent complete, is to create a semi-park area where persons will feel relaxed and obliged to visit.
“It will be hexagonal in shape and include a memorial plaque engraved with the names of all of the victims of the tragedy,” Thorne said.
Another undertaking, commenced three months ago, is the Research Centre at Unity, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, at a budgeted cost of $38M.
That would boast a computer laboratory as well as a recreational park to facilitate residents in the area, he said.