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$800M Matthews Ridge airstrip for June completion
(Kaieteur News) – The new $800 million Matthews Ridge Airstrip in Region One is currently 50% completed and is expected to be completed in June.
According to information provided by President Irfaan Ali on his Facebook page, to date, 2,200 feet of the 4,200-foot runway have been constructed, and work on the parking area is complete.
“Despite weather-related challenges, construction is progressing steadily, with completion projected for June. Once completed, the upgraded airstrip will significantly enhance connectivity, improve transportation efficiency, and support economic development in Region One and surrounding communities,” the President posted.
The Matthews Ridge Airstrip in Region One.
In February, Kaieteur News reported that the upgrade will elevate the facility to a Tier 1 aviation hub.
“Everything that can land at Ogle—including Caribbean Airlines, InterCaribbean Airways, and the flights servicing Suriname—will be able to land here and take off when we are finished,” Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill stated at the time.
Kaieteur News understands that the project is currently being executed by over 60 residents from the village.
During a technical debrief, Minister Edghill addressed challenges regarding inclement weather and staff absenteeism. He issued a stern charge to the workforce, emphasising that while the government prioritises local employment, efficiency remains paramount.
“I’m hoping that the instances of absenteeism are a thing of the past. I am making it very clear: if we have a repeat of that, I am authorising the Special Projects Unit to bring workers from other parts of Region 1 as a last resort,” Minister Edghill informed workers.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works said that the Matthew’s Ridge Airstrip serves as a vital transportation hub for the manganese mining community and surrounding villages.
The ministry said that the new runway is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, support economic expansion, and drastically improve access to essential services for residents.
Several airstrips in the hinterland regions are being upgraded to climate-resilient structures by the government.
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