Gov’t opens $1.7M market square
The government cut the ribbon for a brand new Market Square facility in Road Town yesterday, February 13 for what it described as a signature project costing the government some $1,305,314.06 to date.
Works Minister Kye Rymer said that after the addition of a bus shelter and shutters for the kiosks (stalls) are procured and installed, it is anticipated that the total expenditure will be approximately $1,700,000.
But Rymer, who has responsibility for infrastructure, said the development is well worth the investment as it is expected to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.
“The City of Road Town has been without a market for several years, and this government ensured that this was one of our priority projects to be executed,” he stated.
Minister Rymer said the Market Square project comprises some 16 kiosks – six 10×10 feet kiosks and ten 12×12 feet kiosks. The kiosks are also equipped with sinks for hand washing and electrical power, he disclosed.
According to Rymer, the market square also features one bandstand building, which he said will serve as a localised gathering location for cultural activities and events — in addition to a bathroom building with access and accommodations for persons with disabilities.
Additionally, Rymer shared that the bus shelter will be constructed in the open area adjacent to the road with benches to accommodate up to 25 persons and serve as the central point for passengers to gather for collection by the bus operators.
For vendors to obtain a kiosk, Minister Rymer said there is an application process that encompassed an assessment of the applicants who were evaluated on their belonger status, possession of a valid trade license, their business concept, financial viability, credit references, and applicants having no pending litigations.
Rates for the kiosks have been set at $300 and $450 but Rymer shared that some kiosks can also be had at daily rates for persons who may perhaps not be regular vendors.
“As we are an inclusive government, we have reserved a kiosk for entrepreneurs, farmers, and fisherfolks for periodic use. We welcome you to request the usage of a kiosk at a daily rate of $25 once space is available. We have also reserved a kiosk for exclusive use by our Sister Island farmers and fishermen that commute to the city with their goods,” Rymer said.
Minister Rymer said the Wickham’s Cay Development Authority will initially manage the Market Square but noted that bids will be sought for a management contract to oversee the maintenance and operation of the facilities.
But Rymer, who has responsibility for infrastructure, said the development is well worth the investment as it is expected to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.
“The City of Road Town has been without a market for several years, and this government ensured that this was one of our priority projects to be executed,” he stated.
Minister Rymer said the Market Square project comprises some 16 kiosks – six 10×10 feet kiosks and ten 12×12 feet kiosks. The kiosks are also equipped with sinks for hand washing and electrical power, he disclosed.
According to Rymer, the market square also features one bandstand building, which he said will serve as a localised gathering location for cultural activities and events — in addition to a bathroom building with access and accommodations for persons with disabilities.
Additionally, Rymer shared that the bus shelter will be constructed in the open area adjacent to the road with benches to accommodate up to 25 persons and serve as the central point for passengers to gather for collection by the bus operators.
No one left out
For vendors to obtain a kiosk, Minister Rymer said there is an application process that encompassed an assessment of the applicants who were evaluated on their belonger status, possession of a valid trade license, their business concept, financial viability, credit references, and applicants having no pending litigations.
Rates for the kiosks have been set at $300 and $450 but Rymer shared that some kiosks can also be had at daily rates for persons who may perhaps not be regular vendors.
“As we are an inclusive government, we have reserved a kiosk for entrepreneurs, farmers, and fisherfolks for periodic use. We welcome you to request the usage of a kiosk at a daily rate of $25 once space is available. We have also reserved a kiosk for exclusive use by our Sister Island farmers and fishermen that commute to the city with their goods,” Rymer said.
Minister Rymer said the Wickham’s Cay Development Authority will initially manage the Market Square but noted that bids will be sought for a management contract to oversee the maintenance and operation of the facilities.
