Simon Bolivar Housing Scheme

The Simon Bolivar Housing Scheme, located in the Stock Farm area, is a significant residential project in Dominica, established in the early 1980s under the Dame Mary Eugenia Charles Administration. This initiative was part of a collaborative effort between the Venezuelan government and Dominica, inspired by the legacy of Simón Bolívar, a Venezuelan independence leader.

Historical Background and Development

The Simon Bolivar Housing Scheme emerged as a symbol of the friendship between Venezuela and Dominica. Named after Simón Bolívar, the project aimed to commemorate his ideals of regional cooperation and support for smaller Caribbean nations. Funded and supported by Venezuela, the housing units were constructed to provide sustainable and practical living conditions for residents in the growing Stock Farm area, a suburb of Roseau.

Community and Infrastructure

The Simon Bolivar Housing Scheme is characterized by rows of well-planned residential units, accommodating families and creating a cohesive community environment. Its location in Stock Farm makes it accessible via the Edward Oliver Leblanc Highway and nearby arterial roads. Residents benefit from proximity to essential services such as the Dominica State College, the Dominica State Prison, and Fond Cole Health Centre.

The scheme is supported by local government initiatives to maintain infrastructure, including road repairs and sanitation. Over the years, the area has seen developments that integrate it into the larger Stock Farm community while retaining its identity as a housing project tied to international collaboration.

Economic and Developmental Impact

The housing scheme has played a role in addressing urban housing challenges, reducing overcrowding in Roseau, and improving the living standards of its residents. The project demonstrates how international cooperation can positively impact small island nations by providing necessary infrastructure and fostering economic resilience.