MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica – The former civic centre in Sam Sharpe Square, Montego Bay has been transformed into the Montego Bay Cultural Centre and is scheduled to officially open on Friday, July 11.

Through funding from the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), the centre – which houses the National Art Gallery West, a museum for the performing arts and a bistro – forms part of the government’s effort to “enhance the city’s character and preserve its cultural heritage”.

According to a release from the Ministry of Tourism, the TEF has underwritten several multi-million dollar projects in Montego Bay within the past year to include conversion of the Civic Centre, restoration and beautification of the historical Dome, and renovation of the Harbour Street and Fort craft markets.

Close attention is also being given to the city’s landscape and the ministry says TEF is also funding beautification of the AGS Coombs Highway (Bogue Road) and Montego Bay’s Elegant Corridor which spans the hotel development area.