Posted on 07/16/2008 4:48:22 PM PDT by SandRat
DOHUK — Two schools and a renovated water distribution network under construction in the Dohuk Province, will improve the quality of life for the residents.
The projects, overseen by the Gulf Region Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, are constructed by Iraqi firms using funds from the Economic Support Fund.
The schools in the Malta and Shindohka neighborhoods each consist of 12-room compounds that include an administrative building, laboratory rooms, toilet facilities, a play area and garden, as well as a perimeter wall, guard house and a maintenance room. The facilities will support approximately 2,400 children in two school sessions a day and create employment for more than 40 teachers. At a cost of $2.5 million collectively, these schools are currently under construction and scheduled for completion by the end of the year.
“Education is the key to a bright future, and these educated children are Iraq’s future leaders,” said Jim Hilario, the Dohuk resident engineer for the Gulf Region North district. “I am grateful that I played a small roll in providing the tools necessary for the growth of this nation.”
The Masike to Jami Bini water network will provide a reliable water supply for approximately 65,000 people. Replacing the existing damaged network and installing new water lines will improve the quality and quantity of safe drinking water in the area. The $1.5 million project also provides collateral benefits of increasing water pressure, which reduces contamination; filling existing water storage tanks; and slowing aquifer depletion. As long as there is a reliable source of water serving the Dohuk province, growth potential is unlimited. This project is also under construction and scheduled for completion by the end of the year.
“Americans take a lot of things for granted,” said Hilario. “Just by turning on the faucet, we are assured clean reliable water for cleaning, cooking or drinking. I am blessed to be part of re-building the infrastructures of Iraq.”
The Gulf Region Division plays a vital role in the reconstruction efforts in Dohuk Province. To date, GRD has 22 ESF projects in the Dohuk Province at a total cost of $32.5 million. Four projects are completed, 14 are underway and four are still in the planning stages. These projects are in areas including water, health and education, transportation and communications.
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