Minister Praises Cleanup Efforts After Ernesto
Following the passage of Hurricane Ernesto, the Department of Parks and the Department of Works & Engineering “have been working diligently to clear debris, restore public spaces, and ensure that the island’s parks and beaches are safe and accessible for residents and visitors.”
Minister of Public Works Lt. Col. David Burch said, “The men and women of these departments have shown dedication in the wake of Hurricane Ernesto.”
A Government spokesperson said, “Crews from the Parks Department and the Highways Section within Works & Engineering were deployed to assess the damage in eight predetermined zones across the Island. A phased approach to the clean-up was employed. Areas included main roads, rest homes, parklands, schools and clinics.
“There were major tree obstructions at Orange Valley Devonshire, Four Ways in Warwick, Crow Lane, and Chaplin Bay, to name a few. There was also a major cleanup at Watford Bridge in Somerset, South Road near John Smith’s Bay, and Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton.
“Additionally, teams focused on removing piled-up debris along the road edges, sidewalks and temporary dump sites, and clearing vegetation and fallen trees.”
Minister Burch said, “Their swift action has helped clear debris and ensure that our infrastructure remains safe and functional. The prompt assessment and reopening of the Causeway and the ongoing work across the Island are a testament to their hard work and commitment to the people of Bermuda.”
The spokesperson said, “While the Ministry has made significant efforts to clean up many areas across the island, residents should remember that they also have a duty to trim any overhanging trees and branches, especially those that obstruct pedestrians or drivers.
“Residents are required to keep their roadside hedges neatly trimmed. While a courteous reminder will be given, if there is a clear danger to safe passage, Public Works will step in to cut the problematic trees, and the property owner will be charged $1,000 per hour for the service.
“To assist residents following Hurricane Ernesto’s passage, the Ministry has waived the usual fees charged for dumping horticultural waste at the Marsh Folly facility in Pembroke until the end of this week [23 August].”
