The Tribune

THE contract signing for the construction of a concrete dock to replace the wooden dock in Cooper's Town was greeted with applause by residents of this North Abaco community.

The government signed a $460,100 contract on Friday with Calvin E Parker Construction for the reconstruction of the dock, which was damaged during Hurricane Irene in 2011.

Public Works and Transport Minister Neko Grant said the dock, used by fishermen, pleasure boaters and those visiting neighbouring Spanish Cay, has previously undergone repairs.

"Unfortunately, the dock was again severely damaged last year during Hurricane Irene," Mr Grant said. "It has now been determined that there is a need for complete reconstruction of the timber portion of the dock along with extension of the existing concrete abutment."

Braving high winds, chilly temperatures and the occasional rain shower to witness the event, residents gathered under a tent near the dock.

Also present was the MP for North Eleuthera Alvin Smith, senior Ministry of Works officials, local engineer John Schaefer, and administrators Theophilus Cox and Cephas Cooper.

The Cooper's Town Primary School provided music for the ceremony.

Mr Grant said five contractors from Abaco were invited to submit bids, and a review revealed that Calvin Parker Construction submitted the lowest qualifying bid.

"It was therefore agreed by the Tenders Board and Cabinet that the contract in the amount of $460,100 should be awarded to Calvin Parker Construction Company," Mr Grant said. "It is to be noted that this company has successfully completed many government construction projects in North Abaco in the past."

The work is expected to begin in three weeks and should be completed in six months. Fifteen persons are to be employed on the project.

Mr Grant thanked Mr Schaefer and other Ministry of Works technical staff for their help in planning the project.