UPDATE (with photos): ALBA to fund ‘Roseau River Promenade’

Rendition of a food court on the promenade

ALBA funding to the tune of $4 million will facilitate the development of a proposed Roseau River Promenade.

The government has indicated that it’ll soon be moving ahead with that project that forms an integral part of the Roosevelt Skerrit administration’s redevelopment plan for the city of Roseau.

Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Roosevelt Skerrit told parliament during his budget presentation last week that the project will seek to create a better and more effective area for people involved in vending of products and services along the Roseau River bank.

“The main goal of this project is to develop the area along the south-west end of the Roseau River bank, and to make it more aesthetically pleasing with a safe environment for tourism, recreational and commercial activities,” the Prime Minister disclosed.

The proposal includes the development of facilities to be constructed along the banks of the Roseau River.

The facilities will include vending booths for food and beverage, landscaping and tree planting, a cantilevered board walk and a retaining wall.

An upscale restaurant and mini mall will also form part of the boardwalk feature.

The authorities say the plan for the redevelopment and renewal of the city also involves proper waste management, enhancing the historic district, making the city safer and “the installation of facilities” within Roseau.

A playground
A mini mall
Open space

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78 Comments

  1. Anonymous
    September 8, 2012

    This project proposal is a fantastic initiative. However, do not forget parking,the pavements, good lighting and security cameras.

  2. J
    July 26, 2012

    Great idea looking good

  3. July 26, 2012

    this is a very god start for our country………. The idea and concept is good…..how ever we have to remember the roseau river is dangerous during hurricane time n can cause alot of damage so i hope measures are also being taken to protect the property so dre wont be alot of money being spent on repairs of damage and lost of equipment………..none the less its a good idea…..

  4. ROSEAU VALLEY
    July 26, 2012

    Without a doubt this is a very progressive and forward-thinking project. I like it. It will do a lot to improve the overall appearance of the town and will also serve as a source of employment creation. This is the type of project that can take us to the next level- a mini-mall, playground etc Great! Excellent.

    It would be great though if these projects like the proposed construction of the 150 room hotel were joint public-private or local/foreign ventures whereby government would create the facilitating business environment and allow the private sector to undertake the projects. These projects can be more effectively funded, implemented, operated and maintained through joint venture /partnership arrangements between the government and private sector. Moreover, government must give Dominicans more opportunity to have a personal stake in the development of the country by encouraging the ordinary man to buy shares and contribute to the development of the country. I also hope that the project will not be undertaken by Chinese or foreigners. Let Dominican’s own the project.

    That said…I think this is a very good project. Thumbs up to the government!

  5. Nudibranch
    July 25, 2012

    ..and people will still urinate against the walls.

    wasn’t this concept part of the EU funded ecotourism project and the concept was refused. now it has been rebooted with free money from the other dictator instead of Europe.

    I hope it’s nice when it’s finished.

  6. big
    July 25, 2012

    mmmmmmm stupes :lol: :lol:

  7. DominicanAbroad.
    July 25, 2012

    Looks beautiful,can’t wait to experience that.

  8. scrappy coco
    July 25, 2012

    awesome idea!!!cant wait!!especially the section for the kids!

  9. Smh
    July 25, 2012

    By the way its not a bad idea ..it looks like a fish spot in Barbados.Pm travels alot so he knows and sees ..We just

  10. Smh
    July 25, 2012

    Prettying up the country and we cannot spend doesnt make sense.We need jobs also..

  11. concerned
    July 25, 2012

    i can see how this is a good idea..it even looks good already..but it is tlkin about booths for vendors and so..what arrangement is being made for the bus stops?

  12. MAXx
    July 25, 2012

    D table’s & chairs a 2 small 4 a big family 8-O

  13. Nacinimod
    July 25, 2012

    The proposed project looks great. Still, I would like to see a promenade stretching from the river all the way to Fond Cole. If that were to happen it would be the ultimate beautification project.

  14. Unbiased
    July 25, 2012

    Is it a Loan or a Grant…

  15. @WELL
    July 25, 2012

    While all this is great….Where are the measures put in place to accommodate the local transport service. The bus stands for Canefield and the North even the South is in a mess. Come up with some practical solutions and incorporate it in this supposed Promenade

    • Not a herd follower
      July 25, 2012

      good point

  16. abroad
    July 25, 2012

    why dominicans so backward…the country is so untouch and when the government tryin to chgn the place for rourist as well as doinicans who live abroad is a issue …wake up ppl. we need jobs for ppl …a place to go chile wit the kids and a proper shoppin mall…when i visit every year for carnival the place get bored after carnival monday and tuesday,,,nothin to do caz there come lent after …ones need to hv fun and tk there kids to a place to relax on a sunday after ….dominica also need more night life and money will flow…dont u all get tired of wck and triple kay …i do…we need more clubs…strip clubs and more night bars and a good cinema …plz invest in the country its a great deal,,cas it open job opportunities and party moments :-D :wink:

  17. Jackie Brown
    July 25, 2012

    If or when it take place will the vendures that’s by the road side at present be accommodated within it, or will be be handed to the Chinese by offering a better rate of renting.

  18. Anonymous
    July 25, 2012

    I cannot see room for that on the south of the river but I will wait to see how it is transformed. Sounds like a good project. Do we have to pay back that money? Is it going to add to the already record debt?

    • Justice and Truth
      July 26, 2012

      @Anonymous

      The experts know. They have surveyed the area. They have obviously held meetings and discussed it. Leave it to them. If it were not feasible, they would not build there. Comprehend!

  19. Ray
    July 25, 2012

    Great start…let’s see some competing proposals. We can start doing something organized or let squatters organize something for us.Interrobang.

  20. BRAIN DAMAGE
    July 25, 2012

    Before the general elections, Mamo tried that,
    Eddo tried that to win the people’s x, … But Skerro at this time even Yello got smart at your intention. Tot sot jam moor.

  21. It Is High Time
    July 25, 2012

    This is wonderful, also take into consideration implementing these regulations/ equipment:
    1. Outdoor and indoor camera for security purposes ( ensure it’s always working)
    2. Trained security officers ( not criminal security officers) in other words, know who you’re hiring to secure your place- that goes for all businesses out there.
    3. In case of defacing of property ( e.g gangs graffiti), re-paint, don’t let it stay like that. it draws away people.
    3. ONLY have local vendors ( ensure they know how to carry on business in a proper manner with high standard and quality)
    4. Please do maintenance when needed ( e.g broken light, painting, plumbing, etc)
    5. KEEP IT UPSCALE.

    • Not a herd follower
      July 25, 2012

      good points here

  22. Justice and Truth
    July 25, 2012

    This future Mall looks beautiful already. I visualize what it will look like when it is completed. Dominica is being built up and will look more beautiful and inviting in the future.
    Think of what that area and its surroundings looked like previously and in the present. It will be an area to be enjoyed. No more running away from toilet fumes, etc. or holding your noses as it were in previous years which many of you will remember.
    Thank you to Prime Minister Skerrit for turning Roseau into ‘a real City’, a beautiful one with more projects to come. Dominicans should be ever so grateful specifically those who reside in Roseau. Those of us abroad will be looking forward to the completion of this new project and others on our next visit.
    God bless the Prime Minister. God bless Dominica and its other nationals. Love and peace!

  23. speaking logic
    July 25, 2012

    we will see…..and hear…

  24. 1979
    July 24, 2012

    **when my pants**: correction

  25. Big-Bannan
    July 24, 2012

    Yes, Was about time we put this Alba thing to work.

  26. Red ants
    July 24, 2012

    4 million dollars can only put up a few galvanize kabawais. Before they run their mouth they must understand whst they are saying.

    • Justice and Truth
      July 26, 2012

      @ Red ants

      For one who is an ‘ant’, this is expected of you. :lol: They know better than you what they are doing. You, do not run your mouth as you are doing and giving them curses rather than blessing. Where is your patriotism and encouragement? :twisted:

  27. Roger Burnett
    July 24, 2012

    It beggars belief as to how the contraptions shown in the architect’s drawings, can possibly be seen as “aesthetically pleasing” and “enhancing the historic district”.

  28. OUTSIDER
    July 24, 2012

    Here we go again another low budget project to fool my Dominican people. Wake up and smell the nescafe Dominicans.

  29. Peeping Tom
    July 24, 2012

    Ah yes! A project with much promise for Dominica, especially for Roseau. Thank you very much to all involved. Thank you!

    Now, residents of Roseau have another job creating opportunity. A big step in the right direction.

    • 1979
      July 24, 2012

      you would not say different…

    • Unbiased
      July 25, 2012

      I know much didn’t read through the lines on that one but I caught it. Jolly good show hehehe

  30. History
    July 24, 2012

    Look Dominica cannot afford not to align itself with Alba, because America have bigger fish to fry, than Dominica. So we need all the friends we can get. Like Switzerland we are a non-aligned nation.We take the help we can get from who is willing.

  31. Nature isl
    July 24, 2012

    what are you all contributing towers the developement of your country Dominica? Is it only negativity.Dominica is yours, mines ,all of ours to develope lets all stopthis garbage comments and make positive contribution.

  32. Mal
    July 24, 2012

    Much needed improvement for the city of Roseau, let’s hope construction starts ASAP: the young people of Dca need jobs…Next level indeed!!

  33. July 24, 2012

    I have been suggesting such a project for that area for over 25 years now. To be fail better late than never, just in time for the next election but we will take it. Do not forget to build an elevated stage to cater to the needs of our artists and to enhance our night life activities.

    • Prof. Wikileaks
      July 25, 2012

      You were on track until you brought your snide political remark. Elections is not until 2014 my friend…lol

      • July 25, 2012

        Do you know and understand what freedom of speech and freedom of expression means?? well it`s not what MR; Prof: Wikileaks wants to read or hear. Also can we agree to disagree without being dis agreeable. Prof: Wikileaks I teach my students at my university that all the time.

    • Baller Chick
      July 25, 2012

      strong comment about the artist!

  34. Anonymous
    July 24, 2012

    ? does skerro read dno news to hear the cry of the nation

  35. d/a time
    July 24, 2012

    my boy dominicans become are set of people that like hand out so you know thay must love this PM thats why to are lot of them its there GOD but i know thats how thay use to have D.F.P and where are them now at lest in D.F.P time we use to work had for what we wanted on to now the young P/M say to them its ok if you dont have work to do just keep me in there and ill ask for things for you’ll so d/a is now are place of no work but you get pay .thanks of that $4 million to do all that work and $8 million for liat lol please dominicans am crying for dominicans think for your self i dont know if you all know what this people talking about but this is lot of work for just $4 million when ar eyou all going to think for you’ll self i know you all go to school

    • Dominican
      July 25, 2012

      You sound like a total idiot. Learn to write a complete sentence before commenting on anything.

  36. Doc.Love
    July 24, 2012

    Skerrit can get money from everywhere to do everything,but for years the opposition and electoral office are seeking approximately $5M for voters I.D,he cannot find the money. According to Mr. James,”you see this thing they call democracy,it is causing serious problems to some people.”

    • Justice and Truth
      July 24, 2012

      @ Doc.Love

      Which is more important voters’ I.D. cards or Dominica’s progress, new businesses to enhance Dominica and create jobs? You should applaud and encourage the latter.
      If I resided in DA and involved in the election campaign, I would ensure that no one would vote twice. A strategy should be implemented so that only those who are meant to vote will vote, only once and at one Polling Station. I am confident that it can be done. Need my services? :lol:

  37. poultry farmer
    July 24, 2012

    Tell us a little more concerning the delayed commencement of the pork and poultry project and the coffee project.

    I have been hearing about this projects now for more than two years. It would appear that some thing is not right,or should i ask the question where is the money ?

    can someone please answer my question because i have been to the ministry of agriculture many times to get an answer and the answer is always the same.we are about to start?????????????????

    • me
      July 24, 2012

      funding is a nice word or loan,,,,,,,we have to pay them back plus interest,,,,remember that

  38. Gwenny
    July 24, 2012

    ok and a strip club too

    • Jayson
      July 24, 2012

      With some big-bottom women!

  39. Broken Promises
    July 24, 2012

    Just four million dollars? I find something wrong there. We speaking Mini Mall, Upscale restaurant, retaining wall, boardwalk, vending booths, landscaping and the works. Somebody fooling somebody

    • Choice X
      July 24, 2012

      was thinking the same thing. :(

    • 4 Me what bad is bad
      July 24, 2012

      good question some thing is not right the Grand bay police station is $3.5 milion

    • Justice and Truth
      July 24, 2012

      @ Broken Promises

      Be satisfied and grateful with what you have and what you will be getting. How many are paying taxes to achieve that? You are fortunate that the government is taking on the financial responsibility and burden of constructing it. In other progressive countries, business owners and realtors do this. They bear the costs – not the government. How fortunate are Dominican nationals?

  40. Dreamer
    July 24, 2012

    Alibaba …. :-D :-D :-D

    • 1979
      July 24, 2012

      :lol: :mrgreen:

  41. July 24, 2012

    this is jus smh….really
    ????? what happen to investments in jobs for the young adults leaving secondary school and college??? the government can do better!!!!!!!!!!!!

    • Justice and Truth
      July 24, 2012

      @ the truth

      Is there a money tree growing on government property that it can simply be picked and distributed to whosoever will? You expect the government to do everything, hand everything on a silver platter to every one while they do not lift a finger? Some of you are too independent and critical while having nothing to contribute to the present and future progress of Dominica. Get going and do something good for your country and encourage others to do likewise. Cease your criticism which is an ill-wind that blows nobody any good.

  42. Troll
    July 24, 2012

    Everything you seeing happening now a days is China or Venezuela it, man? Smh in shame.. so sad.

    • Justice and Truth
      July 24, 2012

      @ Troll

      You can start by initiating something and getting others to do likewise. If they do not help who will?

  43. Citizen Kane
    July 24, 2012

    Thanks for correcting your error without posting my comment :) I guess the acceptance of criticism is not your forte`.

  44. TOE-KNEE ASSTER
    July 24, 2012

    every evil act of this administration is pacified by loose projects which intends to arouse public appeal- the intention is to sidetract the unsuspecting public. By the way what about the document you signed to expelled USAID?When will u disclosed whether u signed or not?

    • It's M
      July 24, 2012

      You already know that it was signed, why ask?

    • Justice and Truth
      July 24, 2012

      This one way street of criticism and negativity, lack of confidence will get you nowhere. It is a cul-de-sac – a road that leads to and end and nowhere else.

      • Justice and Truth
        July 24, 2012

        :oops: ‘an end’

  45. 1979
    July 24, 2012

    We aligned ourselves with those anti U.S sentiments…

    FOR THAT!!!

    Not even that we can do for ourselves??? ALIBABA have to pledge 4 mil for us to plant trees, and develop our river bank???? yes yes yes yes yes yes yes my Dominican people….

    what have we become?

    best we cut off our arms, because we can’t do anything without another mans money…

    • flower
      July 24, 2012

      Give Government some money from yours.Raise taxes you complain, so what should they do

      • 1979
        July 24, 2012

        I have to keep my kids in isolation papa. because this lassaiez faire attitude is contagious in Dominica it seems….

        well my older kid is an american so there is little chance for her to adopt the begggggggggggggger mentality.

    • 1979
      July 24, 2012

      I know, I know!!! I’m sooooo sorry,sigh, my mom enrolled me in the church choir but the director kicked me out within a matter of days, he said “Madam, your son just CAN NOT SING!”

    • patriot
      July 24, 2012

      Money is a language all by itself.There is an old saying that money talks and bull walks.

      • 1979
        July 24, 2012

        you said it not me…mankind is now a commodity

    • 4 Me what bad is bad
      July 24, 2012

      1979 what you are saying is not right. who ever can help us is ok as long as we do not sell our sole to the devel but all i can say $4 mil can not do all that work .

      • 1979
        July 24, 2012

        spellcheck!

  46. DR
    July 24, 2012

    We need jobs…

    • Doc.Love
      July 24, 2012

      Senator Prevost requested permission to build a mini mall at the old Roseau clinic and he was turned down.Senator Lugay requested permission to build a similar project at the PWB site he, too, was also turned down.Here goes some of the jobs you are requesting.

      • Justice and Truth
        July 25, 2012

        @ Doc.Love

        Just look at it. Think beyond. The timing and the money to build are now right.

      • Prof. Wikileaks
        July 25, 2012

        You forget Prevo Cinemall and the mess that it is….you are joker

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