Families Receive Housing Packages for River Runs Through

“I am really thankful to God for blessing my family with our own home. Today our prayers have been answered.” These were the words of Crystal Alleyne-Purcell the mother of two girls as she along with over sixty (60) other families joyfully received housing packages to their new homes at the River Runs Through, Housing Development, Arima, on Tuesday August 14, 2018.

This picturesque development, made unique by the water source running through it, consists of a total yield of 108 mixed family units, inclusive of single family homes, duplexes and townhouses. Thus far, 84 units have been completed with the remaining units being delivered by year’s end.

Work on the River Runs Through Development started in August 2016, after Prime Minister Dr the Honourable Keith Rowley turned the sod in July 2016. Delivering the feature address, Prime Minister Dr Rowley, shared a comprehensive timeline on the history of the development, the  enormous amount of work being covered by the government in the housing sector, and shared advice on how persons should work together to build a model community.

Commenting on the beauty and workmanship of the development, newly appointed Minister of Housing and Urban Development, the Hon. Major General (Ret’d) Edmund Dillon said, “six small contractors were used on this project. That was intentional as we wanted to see micro and small contractors playing a greater role in the Public Housing Construction Programme unlike what we saw happening under the previous Administration. We want to ensure that the small entrepreneurs have the same opportunities to grow and develop just as the medium and large construction outfits. This measure also ensures a level of competitiveness that will drive the cost of construction down thereby making home ownership more affordable.”

Also speaking at today’s Housing Distribution Ceremony was the Hon. Anthony Garcia, Member of Parliament for Arima, who congratulated the new homeowners and welcomed them to Arima.