On Friday, June 7th, Haitian President Michel Martelly joined members of Parliament and local authorities to inaugurate Pignon’s new public square. Pignon Mayor Dioda Calixte and member of parliament Deputy Hidson Nelson welcomed President Martelly and congratulated the President for his “broad vision” for Haiti. Deputy Nelson represents Pignon, where Haiti Outreach is headquartered, and the towns of Ranquitte and La Victoire. Prior to President Martelly’s visit, Haiti Outreach Country Director Neil Van Dine discussed the Pignon water system and the need for additional funds to complete it with Deputy Nelson. This is one of the community development projects in which Haiti Outreach is currently engaged.
The attractive square, located on the site of the original public park in downtown Pignon, contains a central recreation area, a lighted basketball court, bleachers, two covered stages, lighted walking paths, elevated observation platforms and four water fountains. SECOSA, the firm that built the park, is a long-time partner of Haiti Outreach.
The park is a source of pride for those living in Pignon and signifies yet another sign of progress. Reconstruction projects such as the new public square and electrification of the town of Pignon are helpful for attracting skilled workers from the bigger cities. In addition to the square, other major reconstruction projects underway in Pignon include a soccer field, a public market and a National Lycée (public secondary school).
