The New Kingston Civic Association (NKCA) in conjunction with the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) is conducting a $10-million project in New Kingston that will see, among other things, the upgrading and repaving of sidewalks in the city’s financial hub.

Rachel Gore, general manager of the NKCA, explained that current improvement works along the Knutsford Boulevard strip are to make the sidewalks more pedestrian-friendly.

“Special provisions will be made to allow physically challenged persons move freely along the sidewalks,” Gore said.

She added that while the repaving of New Kingston sidewalks was being done in time for Cricket World Cup, there are aspects of the project that will be implemented after the month-long tournament.

“We are trying to get ready for World Cup Cricket, but it goes beyond that,” said Gore, adding that funding for the project was received through the Tourism Enhancement Fund.

The fund is administered by the Ministry of Tourism, Entertainment and Culture, which also has its offices on Knutsford Boulevard.

Gore said that the work on the sidewalk was part of an overall effort to improve the New Kingston area and will include general beautification as well as the provision of garbage receptacles throughout.

“We will be removing old signs and generally cleaning up the area,” said Gore.

The Tourism Enhancement Fund was established in 2005 from fees levied on visitors to the island and is to be used to finance projects that are intended to enhance Jamaica’s tourism product.