Speaking at the launch of a two-day stakeholder workshop, Minister King acknowledged the setbacks that have plagued the project but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a people-centred approach.

“I will not stand here and pretend that this project has not faced setbacks. The setbacks may not be well known, but are too numerous to mention here today. I have been forthright in my expressions of disappointment in the project, with aspects of its implementation delays that have caused understandable frustration among commuters, businesses, and entire communities throughout this country.”

Despite the challenges, Minister King highlighted the positive impacts of the project, particularly on families that had to be relocated to allow for road improvements. Rather than being a story of displacement, he described the relocation process as one of “dignity and empowerment.”

“Those households are being resettled on a brand new site where, for the first time in many cases, they will hold a legal title, a deed, a legal title to the land on which their homes are being built,” he said.

“We are not just building roads. We are helping rebuild lives, improve the quality of life and the standard of living. We bring and fulfil promises of hope for brighter days ahead.”

The minister also announced the construction of a new food court and souvenir facility for vendors in Marigot, who have long operated under less-than-ideal conditions.

“For too long, these vendors operated under unsafe, unsanitary, and vulnerable conditions,” King noted. “The new facility will give them a dignified, modern space to earn their livelihood and welcome and serve their visitors. That, too, is resilience. That too is infrastructure that serves the people.”

The project, part of a wider push to improve national road networks and enhance economic opportunities for communities along the route, continues to face scrutiny for its delays.

However, Minister King’s message emphasised the broader vision that includes social upliftment and long-term development for the people most affected.