“So today, I want to announce to this Honourable House, that the opening of the facility is scheduled for 13th February, 2023,” Hon Rymer stated at the Second Sitting of the Fifth Session of the Fourth House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands on January 26, 2023.

What the new facility provides

In addition to a bandstand building, which will serve as a central gathering area for future events at the Market Square, sixteen (16) kiosks were constructed and outfitted with a sink and faucet, lighting, a duplex outlet and a countertop for vending purposes.

According to Hon Rymer, although not installed yet, each kiosk will have shutters to enclose the kiosks to protect against vandalism and provide adequate security.

He also said all kiosks are equipped with a sink for sanitary purposes and are fitted with lighting and power supply to facilitate vendor operations, even during the night-time. “Solar lights are also installed to provide sufficient lighting to the square and reduce the overall electricity consumption charges,” Hon Rymer said.

Regarding the restroom building, Hon Rymer informed it is fitted with a total of eight (8) stalls, with Five (5) stalls on the female side and one being handicap accessible. The male side has 3 stalls with one being handicap accessible and three (3) urinals. He said each side (male and female) has a baby changing station and a concrete trough sink for handwashing.

Resilient building

“Madam Speaker, special attention was given to ensure that the building is resilient and secure with concrete divider walls and shutters at the closure of the entrances.

“The construction of concrete box drains and the trenching and laying of drain pipes have been completed. Careful attention was given to ensure that the Market Square has adequate drainage to ensure the area remains a viable site for business operation during heavy rain events.”

Bush shelter to be constructed

The final building to be constructed is the bus shelter that will be the main hub for the collection of passengers. This will alleviate the dangerous practice of bus operators collecting passengers at the beginning of the Sir Walter Francis dual carriageway.

The bus shelter is expected to be 36 feet in length and is estimated to accommodate over thirty persons to ensure that there is a safe sheltered area for passengers.

What is the rent?

“In preparation for opening the facility, we have offered, first rights of refusal to the original vendors of the old Market Square who were temporarily displaced during construction.

“Madam Speaker, I take this opportunity to invite applicants to apply for one of the sixteen kiosks. We are currently offering the 10 by 10 Kiosks at a rate of $300.00 and the 12 by 12 Kiosks at a rate of $450.00 monthly,” Hon Rymer stated.

The new facility will be initially managed and operated by the Wickham’s Cay Development Authority; however, Government will be inviting tenders for a Management contract to oversee the Road Town Market Square.