USAID/Belize rural access roads and bridges project : evaluation report

Initial evaluation covers the period 9/83-8/85 and is based on site visits and interviews with GOB, USAID/B, and contractor personnel. Progress has been very good when measured against similar projects around the world. The equipment and TA personnel arrived in a timely fashion, but the project paper schedule was unrealistically optimistic and the project is about 6 months behind schedule. Given the weather conditions in Belize, it is doubtful the time can be made up. Therefore, funding has been adjusted for a 6-month operating period after the existing PACD. The GOB seems not to be effectively engaged in the project except at the district maintenance center level. While the project calls for the central engineering organization to take an active role in road design and in evaluation, little evidence was observed that they expect to be collaborative or operational during the life of the project. If a functioning organization is to be left when the project ends, the central organization must take part. Although training in maintenance and construction was to be a major thrust, the project, as staffed, can accomplish on-the-job training only. The overall austerity budgeting of the GOB can have lasting effects on the ability of the Ministry of Works to maintain its road system. USAID/B should encourage the GOB to provide enough allocation to ensure maintenance of project-rehabilitated roads. It appears that the project budget is sufficient to complete all activities. Most funds have been placed in a contingency category to allow flexibility in funding equipment repairs, replacement parts, and other needs, as they arise.