August 11, 2007 - The Masefau Village Road project broke ground on August 10 in a small ceremony attended by a handful of government officials including Governor Togiola Tulafono.
“I am honored and pleased to break ground for this road improvement project for the village of Masefau,”
said the Governor. “This project is beneficial for village student residents who have had to endure hardship and hazards that are associated with an inadequate road system.”
Deputy Secretary of Samoan Affairs HTC Nanai K.S.
Afuola served as Master of Ceremony while Rev. Tafu Afusia offered the opening prayer and blessed the site.
Department of Public Works director Taeaotui Punaofo Tilei gave a brief description of the project, followed by remarks from Lautogia Taula, president of E&W Construction, who was awarded the contract for the project.
Sen. Faamausili Mau Mau Jr. offered remarks on behalf of Masefau village before the turning of the soil, marking the official commencement of the work.
The Masefau Village Road begins from the west end of Masefau Elementary School on Route 006 after the concrete bridge, extending approximately 2,250 linear feet.
The project will include the construction of a 16-foot wide concrete road made of 5-inch Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) laid on 4 inches of crushed aggregate base course.
In addition to the new road, the project will also include the construction of a sidewalk, a 6-inch curb, concrete swales, and a drainage system.
A total of 4 culverts will be installed with headwalls, aprons, inlet basins, and hand rails.
E&W Construction was awarded the $477,439.20 contract which is to be fulfilled 240 calendar days following the Notice to Proceed (NTP) date.
To ensure quality services, the Department of Public Works’ Civil Highway Division will manage the project throughout the duration of construction.
The Masefau Village Road project is fully funded by the US Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration.
Reuben Siatu’u is the project engineer while Mikaele Senio is serving as the project inspector.
“I am pleased to note that the project is designed to service an education facility, as well as an under-served population within this area of the territory, which is the rationale behind the construction priority,” said the Governor.
He added, “I would like to thank the US Department of Transportation/Federal Highway Administration, for their solid financial support for this important series of projects that enhances both safety and economic development in the territory.”
Togiola concluded, “I commend the Department of Public Works on all the work they have accomplished to improve school road systems throughout the territory.
Furthermore, I extend my best wishes to E&W Construction Company for a safe and timely completion in the construction of this very important road project.” |
