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Hokitika Guardian, 25 October 1927, Page 2

I'ito.u what, can he fathered the Public Works Estimates for tin's district make rather bettor reading than usual. There is a considerable sum of “new” money, due to previous unexpected balances being wiped out, and so permitting an increase in the general quota of the district. For some time the annual vote for the Wailio bridge absorbed a substantial part of the annual quota. Even this year there is an amount included to discharge the final cost of the useful structure. In fact, bridges generally have of late involved a considerable part of the Public Works Expenditure. These votes are perhaps not so showy as long lengths of roadway. but as very useful 1 in’ s they serve no less a part. Also, they do not directly employ so much labor, but they are part and parcel of every road scheme and are indisnensihle. It will be noticed that among the votes are some special appropriations for the main highways. This is an indication that several improvements will Ik- carried out in due course. The funds provided are substantial, and will enable additional bridges to he renewed or recreated, and traffic generally will appreciate the lioon. As regards road works, several lengths of roading are contemplated. Tt is to be hoped lands will lie forthcoming promptly to enable the works to proceed. Not only is the present the better season of the year for more economical expenditure of that nature, but it will he a chance to absorb surplus labour about the district. Several of the roads will ho of assistance to back block settlers, and the improved access to be afforded should mean increased production. The roading of such an extensive district as Westland is not a light matter, hut steady nrogress will he possible, and in that direction the new Parliamentary votes will he helpful. The people of the district, therefore, have occasion to appreciate what is being done or promised through the medium of the Public Works Estimates as a material aid to development and progress.