ST THOMAS, Jamaica — The Yallahs Market in St Thomas is now officially reopened to vendors and shoppers following the completion of phase one of reconstruction works by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development.

The completion marks a significant milestone in the ongoing revitalisation of public market infrastructure across the island.

The market, which is in the heart of Yallahs Square, now boasts structured vending spaces, improved lighting systems and new sanitary facilities. Phase two of the renovation will include the building out of the stalls outside of the main building and the facility being paved.

In his remarks at the opening ceremony held on March 27, Portfolio Minister Desmond McKenzie said that the occasion represents a promise being honoured.

He stated that several years ago, “I visited the Morant Bay Market and I visited this market. When I came to this market, the gates were closed. The vendors were on the street, [they had] to sit outside at the gate and watch business taking place in the market outside of what the market was built for.”

“I gave a commitment in 2018 that once the lease expired… we will not renew the lease, and we’ll make efforts to get the market up and running so that the vendors can sit in comfort and persons who come into the market will feel comfortable.  Today, I’m here to honour a commitment that was made,” he added.

McKenzie emphasised that the success of the facility now rests with the people it was built to serve.

“Let us treat our markets with the respect that our markets deserve,” he stated.

The minister also announced a continuation of the waiving of market fees for the vendors over the month of April as the buildout of the facility continues in phase two.

For his part, Mayor of Morant Bay, Councillor Louis Chin, said, “We are opening doors to new opportunities and better facilities for our citizens. The improved market space provides a more dignified and modern space for our vendors and shoppers alike.”

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the St Thomas Municipal Corporation, Kevin McIndoe, emphasised that the market is intended to provide a clean and organised space for vending and buying, strengthen public health and sanitation standards and reduce roadside congestion and disorder.

With St Thomas poised for development through major national investments such as the Morant Bay Urban Centre and the Southern Coastal Highway Improvement Project, the CEO stressed that the role of the corporation must be to ensure that facilities in the parish are ready for its expected growth.

— JIS