HIGHWAYS OFFICE
Principal Government Highway Engineer:
J. R. WHITAKER, M.A. (Cantab.), J.P., C.Eng., F.I.C.E., F.I.Mun.E., Mem.I.T.E.
Government Highway Engineers:
W. C. BELL, D.I.C., C.Eng., M.I.C.E.
G. A. G. SAPSTEAD, C.Eng., F.I.C.E., M.I.H.E.
A. H. WILKINS, B.Sc. (Eng.), C.Eng., F.E.D.I., M.I.C.E. (Acting) A. T. ARMSTRONG-WRIGHT, C.Eng., M.I.C.E. (Acting)
F. E. SHORT, C.Eng., M.I.C.E. (Acting)
GENERAL
9.01. To align the office organization with the continued expanding needs of the community, the Civil Engineering Office was re-organized in September into 2 offices, viz. the Civil Engineering Office and the Highways Office. The Highways Office is sub-divided into 5 divisions and 2 units. The functions and responsibilities of the divisions and units are as outlined on the organization chart on page 98.
9.02. Most engineering works, including those of maintenance, are carried out by contract. A direct labour force is employed on minor road repairs and to deal with urgent drainage faults. Either owing to shortage of staff or because of the need for specialist knowledge, a limited amount of work is put out to consulting engineers. A schedule showing works undertaken by consulting engineers is shown in Appendix Z.
9.03. With comparatively good weather and the absence of serious typhoon and rainstorm damage, good progress was maintained on almost all engineering projects throughout the year. The non-recurrent expenditure for the year amounted to $43,182,000 while $15,712,000 were spent on maintenance, minor improvements, storm damage repairs and works executed on private account.
9.04. A 24 hour skeleton organization is maintained throughout the year for dealing with any emergencies that may arise. This is reinforced during the wet season and is readily expanded to cope with any situation arising from typhoon or rainstorm damages. The capability of this organization will be further strengthened when the radio network for instant communication with field personnel is commissioned. Equipment for this network has already arrived and installation is proceeding.
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