Kingston to get waterfront trail

Kingston’s waterfront is poised for a major transformation as plans move ahead for the development of a 25-kilometre linear park stretching along the Kingston Harbour from downtown Kingston to Port Royal.

The project, dubbed the Kingston Harbour Walk, is being spearheaded by the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) and is expected to create a vibrant public space where residents and visitors can walk, jog, relax, and enjoy greater access to one of the world’s largest natural harbours.

The planned development will build on the existing boardwalk in downtown Kingston, which currently extends from the Marine Police Station area to Rae Town. The UDC intends to expand the waterfront pathway in phases, eventually connecting it to Harbour View in St Andrew and then continuing to Port Royal.

Speaking at a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Think Tank, UDC Deputy General Manager for Planning, Development and Project Management, Loy Malcolm, described the initiative as one of the country’s most significant urban development projects.

She said that the UDC is nearing the signing of design contracts for the first two phases, adding that public consultations will form an important part of the development process.

“That process will also involve a lot of consultation because we want, when we do development, the public of Jamaica must feel that they have been a part of it every step of the way,” she said.

The waterfront project is also expected to strengthen Kingston’s climate resilience by serving as a coastal buffer to protect critical infrastructure along the harbour.

Beyond its protective role, Malcolm said the Kingston Harbour Walk will create new opportunities for Jamaicans and visitors to engage with the waterfront through recreational and cultural experiences.

“We will integrate experiences along the walk. It’s no longer driving along and looking at the water. You are going to be able to interact. I think it’s very important for Jamaicans to interact with the water,” she said.

The UDC has not yet announced a timeline for completion or the projected cost of the project.