Barge and Trucks

We met with a barge company yesterday to learn more about materials being purchased for building.  Wanting to be good stewards of the funds being allocated for building, we have been diligent to understand the cost of materials, how things are built in Belize and how contractors work on the island.

The barge company informed us that effective September 1st, large trucks such as dump trucks, are no longer allowed to pass over the bridge to the north side of the island.  We have not had any materials delivered on site for a while therefore we were unaware of this change.  Because of this change, all materials delivered north of the bridge currently have to be barged.  The barge company suggested that we purchase materials from Belize City for quality and cost purposes when we are ready to start the process.  The meeting was very informative and helpful.

 

Pizza Challenge - Next Section Complete

Workers were promised a pizza when the next section of the property was filled with mud. (The mud hardens so that we can walk and drive across the property.)   

Working diligently for a few weeks on this section, this week was an exceptional week of accomplishment for the property.  We anticipated this section would be finished by the end of the week but everyone pitched in to see it completed today. The property's horizon continues to broaden. 

Last week - section being filled on the left

Beginning of week - spreading the mud

Half way finished

One corner left in the section to fill

Section filled on the right - pizza on the way!

Building Site Preparation Continues and Plans for a Water Cistern

The mud operation continues as we fill the property in preparation for the building site.  A new wheel barrel was also purchased to gain more ground.  Another section of the first acre should be completed by the end of week.

Meanwhile we have been observing other building sites and learning about pilings, casting concrete, water cisterns, etc.  Being on the lagoon side and a significant distance from the main road, water will be an issue as we begin building.  This thought provoking concern brought our attention to the need for more water once the first building is complete.  Originally we planned to have two water tanks on site for the first building and adding a water cistern to the next buildings.  However with the need for water and cost of transport as a couple of reasons, we have decided to add a cistern to the first building.  Our Belizean draftsman is working out two new additional sheets to our original building plan to add this feature.  Updated plans should be ready within a week.

Waving from afar

Gaining new ground

Using the new wheel barrel