June 2013 - More News from Jamaica

Joe Martin writes:

My final full month of work in Jamaica has given me the opportunity to use much of the knowledge that I obtained when researching the library design.  It has also provided me with the opportunity ot see a small section of an active project and to experience much of the design process that occurs with public projects here in Jamaica.

Shortly before my arrival here in Black River, stage one of a new market place was completed.  The aim of the project is to produce a dedicated, secure and weatherproof market area for vendors to replace the shanty style market that currently exists.  this will allow the Black River council to collect revenue from the market which it is currently unable to do as well as provide the Black River community with a covered area for events.

Stage one consisted of simply constructing the large concrete base and aluminium sheeted covering as well as a perimeter fence to secure the area.  Stage two is to construct eight permanent shops on a two tiered construction along with an ablutions block.  My role was to assess the plans that the contractor had put forward for final approval.  I was then required to make any comments and redesign any layouts in line with my comments and suggestions.

Finally I had to present my work to the Contractors, the Parish Councillors, Mayor Fisher and the local MPs, justifying any cost implications that my redesign may incur.

Having to present the redesign was an exciting experience.  Although the contractors gave the impression that they were unhappy at having to redesign, the presentation went well, helped by the fact that the Mayor and the Parish Councillors are all good friends and that my understanding of Patwah has improved in my time here.

More news to follow...