Big upgrade planned for Rudolph Elder Park

The Rudolph Elder Park in Morant Bay, St Thomas, is among three recreational facilities that have been earmarked for a massive upgrade under the Urban Renewal and Development Programme of the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation.

Raymond Poyser, acting senior director in the urban renewal and development branch of the ministry, said $70 million will be spent transforming the park.

"There are plans to improve the park's functionality in terms of lighting, beautification, and landscaping. There are also plans to put in concession shops to create revenue to maintain the park. Work will include the rehabilitation of the fountain, a multipurpose court, improvements to the restrooms and parking, as well as the renovation of the gazebo," Poyser said.

He further stated that a deck will be built to improve ambiance as the park is located next to the sea. In addition, the perimeter fencing and the gate would be renovated, and a children's play area constructed. To address the possibility of traffic congestion, a lane leading into the park will also be constructed off the main road.

Poyser said that the JAG Myers Park in Black River, St Elizabeth, and the Neville Antonio Park in Port Antonio, Portland, are also scheduled for upgrading. He said that the projects are at varying stages of the procurement process. However, no timeline has been given for the start or completion of the projects.

A sizeable $34.2 million has been allocated for the upgrade of the Neville Antonio Park. Poyser said the work will include landscaping, the construction of a new boundary wall, as well as a children's play area. Solar lights and park furniture will be installed, while the restrooms will be renovated.

Meanwhile, the JAG Myers Park will see the construction of a new gazebo, repairs to the roof of the existing gazebo, and the rehabilitation of the water fountain, as well as general beautification and landscaping. A budget of $13.3 million has been allocated for the project.

"The parks will create vibrant, family-friendly spaces that will substantially enhance the quality of life for the residents. Green spaces are essential not just for their aesthetic value, but also for temperature control, to mitigate the 'urban heat island effect' created by too many buildings and infrastructure," Poyser said.