Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley came bearing gifts for burgesses in the Toco/Sangre region, promising to begin developmental works that will link them to Tobago and create economic activity.
Rowley said the Government was moving apace to develop the highways from Valencia to Toco and Cumuto to Manzanilla, as well as construct a ferry port in Toco, which would generate economic growth, jobs and opportunities for people who live in nearby communities.
He offered many opportunities with the infrastructural works the Government was rolling out while addressing party supporters at a political meeting in Sangre Grande on Thursday.
In a bid to get the Valencia/Toco highway off the ground, Rowley said, "A consultant firm which is on the job and in the process of concluding the road alignment" had already been selected.
Thereafter, surveying will begin, followed by a public consultation hosted by Nidco.
"As we get our clearance to proceed we then will go using an IDB funding arrangement."
Rowley assured no one contractor will build this highway.
Soon, Rowley said, a contract will also awarded for the construction of the Cumuto/Manzanilla Highway.
The two proposed road networks, Rowley promised would increase the value of burgesses' lands by 50 per cent.
He promised to tie Trinidad to Tobago with the establishment of the ferry, which he stated would open up new doors for burgesses.
He said he saw no reason why we can't tap into producing a larger quantity of cocoa.
Rowley said if people ventured into cocoa farming using their lands, the Government can use funds from Cepep and URP money to help them.
"Once you are prepared to provide the husbandry then you would be committing yourself to expanding our economy in areas that would allow us to diversify our economy."
The PM also promised to give the Sangre Grande Regional Corporation full autonomy, authority and more resources in running its affairs.
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