Tropical Storm Isidore AffectsTower Building
Directorof Lands and Survey, Clark Buchanan tries to keep dry while inthe department. Photo Lands and Survey
Heavy rains from Tropical Storm Isidorehighlight the need for repairs to the Tower Building.
During an inspection of the building byministry officials and public works staff, flooding was evidenton the ground floor.
"There was a lot of water in the areaof the Lands and Survey Department and the General Registry,"comments the Director of Lands & Survey, Clark Buchanan. Heexplained that the area must be maintained for staff and membersof the public who frequently do business there. Both departmentsalso house important data files and provide significant sourcesof revenue.
The Minister for Planning, Communications,Works and Information Technology, the Hon. Linford Pierson, OBE,JP, who personally accompanied the group on the inspection comments,"Isidore created significant water damage making urgent repairsto the building necessary. While occupants of the Tower Buildingare expected to remain there for at least another two years duringthe construction of new government office buildings and we wouldlike to keep costs to a minimum, we cannot compromise the safetyand health of the occupants."
Public Works recommends that a roof sectionbe constructed over the exposed centre of the building. This projectis expected to go to competitive tender shortly.
Existing maintenance funds will be usedin an effort to again deal with water intrusion from the sidesof the building. Public works staff will caulk and seal the windowsand frames. Outside air vents for the restrooms and kitchen facilitiesare also being installed.
"The state of the Tower Building isyet another reason government is making the new office accommodationsa top priority," concludes Mr. Pierson.