First Drawdown of $100M Road Loan Expected Within Weeks, Browne Says at Manifesto Launch

The first tranche of a US$100 million loan to fund road rehabilitation across Antigua and Barbuda will be accessed “within a matter of weeks,” Works and Housing Minister Maria Browne announced today, outlining an accelerated push to upgrade the nation’s road network.

Speaking at the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) manifesto launch at the American University of Antigua Conference Centre, Browne said the financing will support the continued redevelopment of All Saints Road and broader infrastructure works nationwide.

“A loan of $100 million is already secured to continue the redevelopment of All Saints Road and rehabilitate roads and drains nationwide, the first drawdown of which will be accessed within a matter of weeks,” Browne told supporters.

She framed the investment as part of what the party has branded a “Renaissance” agenda, arguing that road infrastructure is central to economic growth and national development.

“Across this country, from our busiest highways to our smallest communities, we have taken decisive action to rebuild and modernize our road network,” she said, pointing to ongoing works already visible in several areas.

Browne listed a series of major roads that have benefited from government investment, including Sir George Walter Highway, Friars Hill Road, Anchorage Road, Valley Road, and Factory Road, among others. She said the programme has already reached multiple communities, delivering improvements to mobility and safety.

“Our extensive road works programme has already reached communities across this nation, bringing relief, improving safety, and restoring pride,” she said.

While acknowledging progress, Browne said more work remains, with the newly secured financing expected to scale up the pace and scope of repairs and upgrades.

“We know much has been achieved, but we are mindful that much is to be done,” she said.

The minister also sought to connect infrastructure investment with everyday economic realities, describing roads as essential to reducing costs and expanding opportunity.

“Roads are economic lifelines. They reduce costs, improve safety, support business and connect opportunities to every doorstep,” Browne said.

She added that the government’s approach is focused on continuity rather than experimentation, insisting the current programme is delivering results.

“We’re not experimenting, we are expanding a system that is already working. The proof is in the pudding,” she said.

The road rehabilitation programme forms a key pillar of the ABLP’s re-election platform, alongside housing expansion and community development initiatives.

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