Goed Fortuin set for major facelift under Model Villages initiative

Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara is being earmarked for a major transformation under the Government’s Model Villages initiative, with plans aimed at replacing deteriorating infrastructure with safer roads, modern drainage, improved lighting, landscaped public spaces and better pedestrian access as part of a broader effort to establish new standards for communities across Guyana. The proposal, presented as part of the Model Villages programme, outlines a comprehensive upgrade of the village’s physical infrastructure, particularly in areas west of the public road where roads and alleyways have been assessed for improvement. Among the most significant changes is the rehabilitation of roads that currently suffer from faded markings, damaged signs and crumbling edges. Under the plan, roads would be resurfaced and fitted with bright reflective lane markings, traffic signs and smoother road shoulders to improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike. Queen Street, one of the village’s key thoroughfares, is also slated for a dramatic makeover. Instead of pedestrians walking along muddy parapets or sharing the roadway with vehicles, the proposal will see dedicated concrete or interlocking brick walkways separated from traffic. Zebra crossings would also be introduced at strategic locations near busy community areas to improve safety, particularly for schoolchildren and elderly residents. Addressing one of the community’s longstanding concerns, the initiative proposes modernising the drainage network. Existing earthen drains, many of which are blocked by vegetation, silt and garbage, would be replaced with concrete V-shaped or U-shaped drains designed to improve water flow. Main trenches would be cleaned and deepened, while removable grates would be installed at critical points to trap rubbish before it clogs the drainage system. The improvements are intended to reduce flooding, prevent soil erosion and eliminate stagnant water that can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. The plans also focus heavily on improving the appearance of the village. Overgrown bushes and weeds that currently encroach on pathways would be cleared, with regularly maintained lawns replacing untidy vegetation. Decorative concrete or brick flower planters featuring local flowering plants such as hibiscus and bougainvillea are proposed, while trees would be trimmed to provide shade without interfering with overhead utility lines. Residents are also expected to benefit from safer movement throughout the village after dark. The proposal recommends replacing ageing or damaged streetlights with modern LED lighting mounted on evenly spaced poles. Solar-powered battery systems are also envisioned to ensure lighting remains operational during power outages, improving security and visibility for residents travelling at night. Pathways and alleyways, which in many sections are currently uneven and difficult to navigate, would also be upgraded to provide safer and more accessible routes for residents moving through the community. Another feature of the proposal is the removal of heavy encumbrances from road shoulders and road reserves to create cleaner, safer streetscapes and improve visibility for motorists and pedestrians. The overall vision is to create “a modern, aesthetic and community-friendly infrastructure for Goed Fortuin,” aligning with the wider Model Villages initiative, which President Irfaan Ali has said is intended to establish a new benchmark for villages across Guyana by improving public spaces, infrastructure and quality of life through partnerships between communities and government agencies.