As part of its ongoing commitment to improving water infrastructure across Dominica, the Dominica Water and Sewerage Company (DOWASCO) has begun community engagement efforts in Castle Bruce, where major upgrades are now underway under the Water Sector Strategic Development Project (WSSDP).

The meeting, held recently in the community, brought together residents and members of DOWASCO’s project management team to discuss the scope and benefits of the work being carried out on the Castle Bruce Water System.

The WSSDP is a multi-phase initiative aimed at rehabilitating and strengthening water systems in four key areas across the island, Grand Fond, Calibishie, Coulibistrie, and Castle Bruce. In Castle Bruce, the project involves significant upgrades to ageing infrastructure in order to improve service delivery and ensure a more reliable and sustainable supply of water to the community.

During the meeting, DOWASCO representatives provided an update on the progress of the works, discussed the expected impacts during construction, and outlined the long-term benefits of the project. According to the company, the upgrades will not only address long-standing issues in the system but will also increase its resilience to climate-related challenges.

The meeting also served as a platform for open dialogue. Residents expressed a range of concerns, from temporary service disruptions during construction to long-term maintenance and system reliability. DOWASCO’s technical team took the time to address each issue raised, offering clarity and reassurance regarding timelines, support systems, and communication plans.

DOWASCO has emphasized the importance of community involvement throughout the life of the WSSDP. Engagements like the one in Castle Bruce are part of a wider strategy to ensure transparency, manage expectations, and incorporate community feedback into the execution of the project.

“We are truly grateful to the Castle Bruce community for their active participation and valuable feedback,” the company said in a statement following the meeting. “This level of engagement helps guide our efforts and ensures the project responds to the real needs of the people it is intended to serve.”

As construction activities continue in Castle Bruce and other project areas, DOWASCO has committed to providing regular updates and ongoing engagement with residents. A community liaison mechanism is in place to help manage concerns as they arise and ensure residents stay informed every step of the way.