PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of VROMI, Patrice Gumbs Jr., provided critical updates on key initiatives shaping St. Maarten’s infrastructure and environmental landscape. Two standout topics dominated the discussion: the Emergency Debris Management Programme (EDMP) and the Road Hard Surfacing Project. These projects signify significant strides in addressing environmental sustainability and improving road conditions for the local community.
Advancements in the Emergency Debris Management Programme
The EDMP, which focuses on addressing the pressing challenges of waste and landfill management in St. Maarten, has made substantial progress despite facing delays. According to Minister Gumbs Jr., the program had been stalled for nearly two years. Still, focused efforts over the last 11 months have resulted in tangible steps toward resolving critical waste management issues.
“We’re at the point now where we’re making major decisions about the final intervention plan on the landfill,” shared Minister Gumbs Jr. This milestone followed extensive consultations and discussions with the Emergency Steering Committee in the Netherlands.
One of the fundamental goals of the EDMP is the transition to a circular economy. This approach emphasizes reducing waste, reusing materials, and implementing sustainable strategies at all stages of waste management. The Minister highlighted that partnerships with other nations and agreements with key stakeholders are under active discussion to align with this eco-focused vision.
A noteworthy mention was the clarity provided around the bidding process for EDMP contractors. Minister Gumbs Jr. explicitly denied rumors that the bidding process for local companies had been halted or influenced by the Ministry’s efforts. He stated firmly, “I did not stop or intervene in any bidding process.” Transparency remains a top priority as the project progresses.
Challenges Ahead for the EDMP
Despite the progress, challenges persist. The Minister acknowledged that waste management reforms require systemic changes, extensive collaboration, and a consistent commitment from stakeholders. EDMP’s success hinges on these factors, alongside community support for adopting environmentally friendly practices.
Additionally, as part of the program, further engagement with international ministries, including those in the Netherlands, continues to ensure alignment with global sustainability standards.
Updates on the Road Heart Surfacing Project
Minister Gumbs Jr. also provided updates on the Road Hard Surfacing Project, another critical program aimed at improving St. Maarten’s transport infrastructure. The first phase of the project, which focuses on the resurfacing of key roads across Cole Bay, is on track for completion by the end of summer 2025.
However, the Minister did not shy away from addressing the issues faced by specific roads, such as Man Jack Drive. Although most roads are nearly finalized, Man Jack Drive has unique challenges related to land boundaries and road widening requirements. We’ve been in communication with local families to resolve these complications,” explained Gumbs Jr.
Looking beyond the immediate objectives, the second phase of the Road Hard Surfacing Project is set to extend to additional neighborhoods. The aim is to ensure that not only are all roads evenly paved, but also that supporting infrastructure, such as drainage systems, is appropriately incorporated.
Holistic Approach to Road Development
Drainage has become a key focus in the government’s road development strategy, particularly for flood-prone areas such as Union Road in Cole Bay. “It’s not enough to have hard surface roads without an effective drainage system. Otherwise, we’re just pushing the problem further down the road—literally,” said the Minister.
Plans for drainage improvements are underway, ensuring that the infrastructure built is durable and meets the island’s long-term needs. This integrated approach reflects the government’s commitment to providing high-quality and future-proof infrastructure.
Addressing Well Road and Dutch Quarter Concerns
The Minister further addressed public concerns about Well Road and projects in the Dutch Quarter. While Well Road remains incomplete, it is set to be prioritized in upcoming CAPEX (Capital Expenditure) requests, as it serves as a critical diversion route for Simpson Bay and Cole Bay.
Dutch Quarter, on the other hand, has faced delays in connecting sewage systems to household lines. The government plans to expedite work by scheduling the necessary connections in the coming year, ensuring cleaner and more functional infrastructure in the area.
The situation in Dutch Quarter also came under scrutiny, where sewage mismanagement is a longstanding issue. Residents have raised concerns about untreated sewage running through the streets and delays in connecting homes to existing sewer lines.
Minister Gumbs Jr. acknowledged the delays and outlined the government’s next steps to address them. “We are currently scheduling the household connections for the upcoming year,” he announced. These connections will link residences in the Dutch Quarter to the sewage line on the main road and connect pumps over the surrounding hills to complete the system.
The project’s ultimate goal is to create a cleaner and healthier environment for the residents of the Dutch Quarter. However, the issue has been complicated by malfunctions in the infrastructure handed over as part of the initial project phase. The Minister disclosed that while pump systems have already been transferred to government control, ongoing technical difficulties have slowed progress.
“As it stands, several components, including the pump, are still being worked on to address post-handover malfunctions,” he said. The tendering process for household connections, a key aspect of the project, is also being finalized to ensure swift execution in the coming months.
Challenges with Limited Resources
Both the Well Road and Dutch Quarter projects highlight the difficulties involved in balancing urgent infrastructure upgrades with limited financial resources. Minister Gumbs Jr. emphasized that prioritization and strategic planning are essential in addressing these issues effectively.
Beyond budgetary constraints, the Minister noted that comprehensive development also requires navigating bureaucratic processes, coordinating with local stakeholders, and ensuring that technical standards meet long-term sustainability goals. These challenges add layers of complexity to what appear to be straightforward infrastructure improvements.
A Vision for the Future
Minister Gumbs Jr. closed his remarks with a call for patience and understanding from residents as the government works to execute these vital projects. “We understand the frustrations around delays in Well Road and Dutch Quarter, but we are committed to addressing them in a way that ensures lasting results,” he reassured.
He reiterated the administration’s dedication to transparency and accountability, particularly in managing taxpayer funds and delivering meaningful improvements to public infrastructure.
Building Community Confidence
The updates provided by Minister Patrice Gumbs Jr. reflect the government’s commitment to fostering growth and improving living conditions in St. Martin. Projects like Well Road and Dutch Quarter are more than construction efforts—they symbolize an investment in the well-being of local communities.
While challenges such as funding constraints and technical delays remain hurdles to overcome, the government’s holistic approach—prioritizing proper drainage, comprehensive planning, and effective execution—offers hope for sustainable progress.
These strides pave the way for a more connected, functional, and resilient St. Martin, ensuring that residents and visitors alike can benefit from improved infrastructure for years to come.