Chamber hosts stakeholder consultation on Urban and Port Modernization projects

The Chamber of Industry and Commerce, in collaboration with the Ministry of Urban Development, recently hosted a stakeholder consultation aimed at sharing updates and obtaining feedback on transformative projects designed to modernise Kingstown, develop Arnos Vale into a modern city, and to enhance the country’s primary port infrastructure.

The consultation, chaired by CEO of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Anthony Regisford and held at the conference room of La Vue Hotel brought together key stakeholders to discuss the progress and objectives of these, projects, states a release from the Chamber.

The varied presentations highlighted ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, boost economic activity, and create a more sustainable and resilient future for St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG).

CEO of the Port Authority, Carl James, outlined the vision for a global-standard port facility, emphasizing innovation and operational efficiency as drivers of excellence.

“We aim to deliver the highest quality service to facilitate maritime trade and promote sustainable economic growth,” said James. He also detailed initiatives such as digitization, cybersecurity, and employee training, all designed to optimize operations and position the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority as a regional leader.  The presentation on the Arnos Vale modern city development, and Kingstown urban revitalization projects was done by Project Manager of the NDM under  the Ministry of Transport and Works, Cecil Harris, who focussed on creating a dynamic, financial and economic framework for growth.

Key highlights included plans for commercial and residential spaces, hotel development, green spaces, and solutions for flooding and coastal resilience.

“These projects are about transforming lives by modernizing our infrastructure and creating opportunities for citizens,” Harris emphasised.

Project officer in the Ministry of Urban Development, Keisha Hackshaw, provided insights into specific revitalization initiatives for Kingstown, including upgrades to the Bay front, improved parking, enhancements to green spaces, and the repair of iconic locations such as the central vegetable market.

A standout feature of the revitalization effort is the construction of a climate-resilient boardwalk to protect Kingstown from coastal and fluvial flooding.

The presentation on the Port Modernization Project was done by Lenski Douglas of the Port Project Implementation Unit, who noted that construction of the Modern Port, is on schedule for completion in May, 2025. This $US 247 million initiative, is the second largest capital project undertaken by the state, and will consolidate port operations and introduce state-of-the-art facilities to support climate resilience and future expansion.

The consultation underscored the government’s commitment to collaborate with private sector stakeholders in achieving a shared vision for modernization and sustainable development. The Chamber said the forum provided an opportunity for open dialogue on how these projects will benefit businesses and citizens alike, creating a robust foundation for economic growth.