THE Urban Development Corporation (UDC) is celebrating 58 years of shaping Jamaica’s development landscape, marking the milestone with activities that highlight its impact across infrastructure, tourism, and national growth.

Over the past 58 years the corporation has played a significant role in the planning and development of urban spaces and key national assets across Jamaica.

The corporation continues to manage a diverse portfolio of attractions, parks, and commercial properties that contribute to the country’s tourism offering and economic activity.

As part of the anniversary observance, the corporation hosted UDC Day at its head office last week, a staff engagement initiative that brought together team members from across the organisation to showcase the breadth of its work and impact.

The event featured an interactive expo with booths representing the corporation’s various departments, giving staff a closer look at ongoing projects, operational areas, and the role each unit plays in delivering on UDC’s mandate.

Among the major projects now being implemented by the UDC is the Raintree Commercial Complex at Caymanas Estate.

According to the UDC, since the launch of Raintree in March 2025, it has seen steady interest from across the commercial sector.

Strategically located north of the Mandela Highway adjacent to the Ferry Police station, Raintree offers 69 lots designed for high-efficiency logistics and light manufacturing.

Lots in the commercial complex are available for outright purchase, with ownership transferred through the established application and divestment process.

The UDC has emphasised that Raintree does not simply deliver plots of land, but fully serviced lots backed by dedicated infrastructure and modern amenities, specifically engineered to cut down on development lead times and ensure business operations run efficiently for the long haul.

“We have seen a clear shift in how investors view this corridor,” said Sherlock Glenister, deputy general manager for subsidiary management and revenue generation at the UDC in a recent media release.

“Raintree was designed to be a structured framework for serious investment. As we reach the halfway mark in our development timeline the advantage belongs to those who act now to secure their space before the August infrastructure handover,” added Glenister.

He emphasised that the 10 per cent deposit requirement remains a key part of the process “to ensure that the Raintree ecosystem is comprised of high-capacity, ready-to-develop partners. We are prioritsing orderly development and long-term economic impact for the region”.

Glenister pointed out that infrastructure works across the subdivision are progressing, with completion of internal roads, water supply, sewage systems, and electricity scheduled for August 2026.

Once completed, the Raintree Commercial Complex will offer a fully serviced commercial environment designed to support business growth, logistics activity, and job creation.

Speaking on the 58th anniversary milestone, UDC General Manager Robert Honeyghan said the corporation has played a central role in shaping Jamaica’s physical and economic landscape.

“This milestone is not only a celebration of our legacy, but also a reminder of the responsibility we carry to continue delivering projects and managing assets that support national growth. As we look ahead, our focus remains on practical development, strong partnerships, and ensuring that the work we do continues to create meaningful impact for communities across Jamaica,” said Honeghan.

He highlighted UDC’s ongoing work across its development portfolio — including infrastructure projects, public spaces, and key tourism assets — as well as its continued role in supporting Jamaica’s growth and development.