Navigating the Road to Resilience: Dominica’s Innovative Approach to Road Asset Management

CREAD 5th September, 2023

0 1,384

In the picturesque landscapes of Dominica, where lush greenery meets the azure Caribbean Sea, the path to sustainable development is intricately woven into the resilience of its infrastructure. Among the vital components of this journey is the innovative approach to road asset management, a key player in disaster resilience and one of the overarching goals of sustainable progress.

Dominica’s road network serves as the lifeline of the nation, connecting communities, enabling trade, and fostering economic growth. Yet, the vulnerability of these roads to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, landslides, and floods, poses a significant threat to both connectivity and development. Recognizing this challenge, Dominica has taken a proactive stance by developing a robust road asset management system.

The Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica (GoCD), with CREAD (Climate Resilience Execution Agency for Dominica) as the executing agency, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy (MWPUDE), has received financing allocated from the resources of the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF) through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) towards the cost of the Rehabilitation of Loubiere to Grand Bay Road (LGBR) (Loubiere to Bagatelle Phase 1). As part of this rehabilitation project, INES Engineering Consulting of Spain has been working with the Ministry to develop the Road Asset Management System (RAMS). From January 2023, the team has been working assiduously with engineers in Dominica to assess the island’s road assets and identify ways to mitigate impact on the road network.

The primary objective of this collaborative effort is to lay the groundwork for a cost-efficient Road Asset Management System within Dominica. This system will not only ensure the optimal allocation of resources but also enable the country to efficiently monitor and maintain its road infrastructure. In doing so, Dominica will be better equipped to manage its road assets effectively, prolong their lifespan, and maximize the return on investment for its citizens.

Moreover, this initiative holds the critical dimension of enhancing the country’s resilience to the ever-growing challenges posed by natural hazards and climate change. Dominica, like many other nations, faces the increasing threat of extreme weather events, which can wreak havoc on its infrastructure. By implementing resilient asset management practices, the project aims to fortify the coping capacity of Dominica’s roads against such disasters.

This dual-pronged approach – cost-efficient asset management and increased resilience – not only serves the immediate goal of enhancing infrastructure but also contributes significantly to the long-term sustainable development of the Commonwealth of Dominica. It represents a forward-looking strategy that aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change impacts and create more resilient communities. This aligns with target 11 of the CRRP – 100% primary roads and bridges open within 3 days of an extreme weather event.

Beyond its role in disaster resilience, effective road management is a catalyst for sustainable economic growth. Well-maintained roads enhance connectivity, reducing transportation costs and increasing market access for goods and services. Proper road infrastructure therefore attracts investment, stimulates tourism, and drives local economies, fostering employment and prosperity for Dominicans.

The Road Asset Management System will optimize resource allocation. By strategically directing funds towards maintenance, rehabilitation, and expansion of road networks, Dominica ensures a cost-effective approach to road infrastructure development, leaving more resources available for other critical projects and initiatives on the island. Additionally, it contributes to an increase in capacity of personnel through training and skills development. The Ministry of Public Works, Public Utilities and Digital Economy can also boast of an increase in the Ministry’s technical capacity.

As Dominica advances on its road to resilience, the Road Asset Management System exemplifies the nation’s determination to achieve set targets and key result areas all in an effort to safeguard its people against the unpredictable forces of nature.