New diversions coming as GT project rolls on
(CNS): New temporary traffic diversion from Edward Street to Main Street will be in place from the middle of this month until December, as Phase 3 of the Central Business Development Enhancement Project begins, part of the long-running George Town Revitalisation Initiative. The planning ministry is encouraging commuters to plan their routes in advance and expect some delays.
According to a press release, this latest phase involves new lighting installations, extensive upgrades to underground utilities, compaction and the laying of new pavers.
“These enhancements are designed to make George Town more pedestrian-friendly and aesthetically pleasing, aligning with the broader vision of the GTRI to transform the capital into a dynamic and accessible urban centre,” officials stated.
The initiative has been rolling on for years. As well as updating ageing infrastructure, the ministry claims it is about “creating a city that reflects the unique cultural heritage of the Cayman Islands while embracing modern urban living”, which has yet to materialise.
Nevertheless, officials said it is about boosting business by increasing foot traffic and improving pedestrian accessibility through new pathways and better road links, making it easier for everyone to navigate the city.
While there remains a glaring lack of trees in the downtown areas, the ministry said the project will include new green spaces and pocket parks, providing places to relax and connect with nature in the middle of the city, though they have not said when people can expect to see more greenery and shade in this part of the capital.
Despite the repeated and significant loss of culturally significant properties in and around the capital, officials have said the project “will also focus on revitalising historical sites, turning them into attractive landmarks”, honouring the island’s history while “supporting a thriving urban culture”.
However, no one has identified which of the remaining older buildings in town have been protected as part of this project.
The commitment to a sustainable future is demonstrated through the use of eco-friendly materials, LED lighting and solar-powered infrastructure, officials indicated.
Visual representations of the planned changes, including maps and artist renderings, are available on the project’s website.
The community is also invited to share feedback to ensure that the project meets the needs and expectations of everyone in George Town.
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Category: development, Local News
if they plant trees first they could possibly provide shade when the pace of this project.
More astroturf coming folks, plastic trees next.
Whole project is a diversion, of our money, in to a very deep hole.
Downtown as a destination is effectively dead. The few remaining places to eat/drink are dwindling (closure of Bread and Chocolate, and Bluestone cafe etc). Souvenir and t-shirt shops, and watches and jewelry. Remaining long-time businesses like Appleby and Deloitte have left for Camana Bay.
At night….nothing. And good luck with parking.
GT looks like cr@p with all the banners and signs, and this is going to be lipstick on a pig.
The initiative has been rolling on for years…the works and potholes rolling on for years…Robson Construction LOL
What waffle!
What is the unique cultural heritage in town…banks, jewllery stores, government offices.
Maybe they can drive all the businesses out so Sauron can take over.
another reason to avoid ghost town…sorry i mean george town.
Pedestrian friendly for whom? Tshirt and shot glass browsing cruise passengers we don’t want? Cayman continues to spend its finite cash badly, without a use case, sensible design, or open bidding.
I cannot wait to see the finished project!
You can tell election year coming up. All these politicians are now trying to make it seem like they are actually doing something for the community.
George Town is not a City! Hence the name Town.
Why are the sidewalks around all the traffic lights being daubed with that garish teal paint?
Always classy Cayman…
Green pockets are one thing but also general greenery and shading are essential for a place as hot as Cayman. I walked from Cricket Square to the Court House last week during my lunch break, it could have been a pleasant journey seeing as it wasn’t far and I could get a bit of a break from sitting all day, but I think I was shaded by 2 trees the entire time. I’d like to travel more on foot during the working day but coming back drenched in sweat isn’t acceptable