Press Release

Ministry of Communications and Works
Office of the City Manager and Wickham's Cay Development Authority
Release Date:
Wednesday, 15 February 2023 - 10:12am

The newly dedicated Market Square project is said to be a signature project of the Government of the Virgin Islands to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer in remarks at the official opening ceremony on February 13 said the City of Road Town has been without a market for several years, and that this was a priority project to be executed. The aim he said was to create an attractive area that residents can be proud to visit and enjoy the local products to include a recreational space for general gathering.

Honourable Rymer said, “As Tourism is everyone's business, in these beautiful Virgin Islands, we felt that it was important to present festive kiosks that will attract both tourists and residents alike. From today, this market will be bustling with vendors selling local and imported produce and goods, the sound of music and people shopping.”

 The Minister also stated that the Market Square is raised at a minimum six inches above the surrounding road levels to ensure that any water runoff from the roadways does not affect the Market Square during moderate rain events.”

A total of one million, three hundred and five thousand, three hundred and fourteen dollars and six cents ($1,305,314.06) was committed to this project which spans a total of four budget cycles.

There are still two outstanding components yet to be contracted; a new bus shelter will be constructed, and the shutters for the kiosks will be procured and installed.

The Wickham's Cay Development Authority will initially manage the Market Square.  Tenderers will be invited to bid for the management contract to oversee the maintenance and operations of the facilities.

Meanwhile persons wishing to obtain a kiosk, will have to go through the application process that encompasses the assessment of one’s Belonger status; possession of a valid trade licence; a business concept; financial viability; credit references; and no pending litigations.

            Persons interested in operating at the Market Square are advised, that applications are available at the office of the Wickham’s Cay Development Authority on Main Street,

across from the Prison Museum.  Applicants may also request applications and submit by email at tempwcda@gmail.com.  For more information, telephone 1(284) 494-3172.  

The Market Square is a historical site established in the 1970s and was the fourth (4th) official Market Day venue in the Territory.

 

Author

Giovanni Herbert

Information Officer
Telephone:  468-2035
Email: gherbert@gov.vg