However, the combined efforts of the Agency for Reconstruction and Development Inc. (ARD), contractor Classic Design and Construction Services Ltd. and Yorke Structures Co. Ltd. of Trinidad and Tobago completed the task of erecting the roof framing for the Richmond Home for the Elderly over a period of two weeks.

“Basically, man power had to do everything,” according to ARD engineer Ravindra Gopal.

The steel trusses for the Home, which were recommended by the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), were shipped in pieces via boat from Trinidad earlier this month. The pieces were carried manually through the Fort Matthew gateway across some 50 feet and then assembled and bolted by hand on site.

“We used a 24-foot high ‘gin pole’ with an extended arm at the top and a block and tackle to lift the six trusses in place,” Mr. Gopal explained, adding that Yorke Structures provided the services of two steel
erectors for a week to assist with assembly and erection of the trusses.

Meanwhile, the 75 residents of the Home remain housed in the lower level of the two-storey structure, while the new roof is installed; and painting, window installation and electrical and plumbing repairs are
completed.

Financing for the $726,000 (EC) Project, which is managed by the ARD, is provided by PAHO, The Government of Grenada, Health Canada and the USAID/Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance.