The Tribune

THE team working on the construction of the new Critical Care Block at the Princess Margaret Hospital have reportedly been making significant progress.

The contractors say the project is still on budget, and remains on schedule for its June 2013 completion date.

"The biggest excitement is the fact that the project has been designed and is being constructed by Bahamians. I'm really proud of the fact that we are predominantly Bahamian consultants," said Michael Diggiss of Michael Diggiss and Associates, lead consultant for the project.

"We are working along with Beck in Atlanta which is headed by a Bahamian. We are working with Cavalier which is a Bahamian company and they are hiring Bahamian subcontractors - which really is a testament to the fact that with a collaborative effort, with Bahamian professionals in the construction industry, we can really develop a first class product for the benefit of the country."

Doug Thompson, president of Cavalier Construction, noted that the excavation of the site is complete. Construction of the compound's retaining walls is the next step. He said: "Along Shirley Street, the retaining walls are well on their way and ahead of schedule. We are proceeding with the back-fill and compaction of that area. We've completed the majority of the enabling works except for the garbage enclosure and Ministry of Education additional parking. Next, we will continue on with the new entry block."