West Coast Road

The West Coast Road (previously Roseau to Portsmouth Road) in Dominica, now known as the Edward Oliver LeBlanc Highway, is a crucial transportation route running along the island’s west coast from Roseau, Saint George Parish to Portsmouth, Saint John Parish. Originally constructed to improve connectivity, it has become essential to Dominica’s transportation network, tourism, and commerce. The road links key towns, villages (like Dublanc, Colihaut and Coulibistrie), and landmarks (like Mero Beach, Hillsborough Bridge and Canefield Airport (DCF)).

West Coast Road: Reconstruction and Climate Resilience

In 2012, the road underwent significant reconstruction funded by a $100 million grant from the People’s Republic of China, managed by the China Railway 17 Bureau Group Co. Ltd. This upgrade improved the road’s resilience, especially considering Dominica’s susceptibility to severe weather events. Tropical Storm Erika in 2015 and Hurricane Maria in 2017 inflicted substantial damage, particularly to infrastructure along the West Coast, such as the Macoucherie Bridge and the bridges in Batalie and Pointe Ronde. Following these events, additional rehabilitation was funded by China, with a $21 million project that included bridge replacements, road resurfacing, drainage improvements, and slope stabilization.

This collaborative infrastructure development between Dominica and China has been instrumental in enhancing the safety and longevity of the West Coast Road, making it better equipped to handle future environmental challenges and supporting Dominica’s economy and tourism sector.