Coles Associates Ltd., in partnership with the Caribbean Development Bank, led the Government of Antigua and Barbuda Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Project to restore infrastructure for Barbuda's 1,600 residents following the devastation of Hurricane Irma. With wind speeds over 185 miles per hour and a storm surge exceeding 20 feet, Hurricane Irma destroyed 95% of buildings, displacing the entire population. The project rebuilt critical infrastructure, including the Holy Trinity School, Council Administrative Building, and a repurposed Emergency Response Centre, restoring services and improving community resilience. This initiative prioritized physical reconstruction and social stability, ensuring that Barbuda's recovery extended beyond rebuilding structures to reestablishing a thriving and self-sustaining community. A model for disaster recovery, it shows how engineering helps rebuild communities and fosters climate resilience.
The jury commended this project for its meaningful response to a devastated community following Hurricane Irma. Despite political and logistical challenges, the team prioritized resilience and inclusivity, adapting the design based on community input. This stood out as a strong example of collaborative recovery, balancing urgent needs with long-term impact in a complex environment.
