$2.8B Georgetown Enhancement Programme Targets Markets, Green Spaces and Historic Sites
Vendors at Stabroek Market, residents of East Ruimveldt and families who use Merriman’s Mall could soon see long-awaited improvements, as the government moves ahead with a $2.8 billion Georgetown Enhancement Programme aimed at upgrading markets, green spaces and historic sites across the capital.
The allocation was examined on Thursday in the Parliamentary Committee of Supply, where Opposition MPs Ganesh Mahipaul and Duarte Hetsberger questioned Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand on spending priorities, delays and additional funding for projects approved last year.
A $2 billion is dedicated to the restoration, reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Stabroek Market and the development of Bourda Green. Minister Manickchand told the committee that the works at Stabroek Market are intended to preserve the historic structure while making it safer and more functional for the hundreds of vendors and daily shoppers who depend on it.
She explained that the project is not about demolishing and rebuilding the landmark, but about carefully restoring it while addressing long-standing structural concerns.
Of the broader allocation, $74.79 million is set aside this year to continue roof rehabilitation works at the market. The project began in 2025, when approximately $200 million was spent. The contract, awarded in October 2025 to BM Properties Inc., is about 60 per cent complete and is expected to conclude by the end of March.
The Minister noted that repairing older structures often reveals hidden damage that can increase costs, as sections thought to require minor fixes sometimes expose deeper structural deterioration. The East Ruimveldt Market is also scheduled for upgrades, with $45 million allocated for works this year. The project did not proceed as anticipated in 2025, but is now expected to move forward.
Similarly, the La Penitence Market, approved last year but not yet executed, is slated for completion in 2026. Although a specific figure was not detailed during the exchange, the Minister assured Parliament that the works would be undertaken.
Residents can also expect movement on the redevelopment of Merriman’s Mall. The historic recreational space, previously budgeted but left unfinished, is expected to be revitalised to better serve families, vendors and community events.
Beyond markets and parks, the programme includes $30 million for restoration works at poet Martin Carter’s home on Lamaha Street, subject to consultations with property owners. An additional $200 million is earmarked to continue enhancing city avenues, building on recent lighting works. Some $100 million is allocated forthe refurbishment of Transport and Harbours facilities and surrounding areas, while $150 million will support rehabilitation works in collaboration with the Mayor and City Council. Another $35 million is budgeted for the fabrication and installation of street name signs. The Tiger Bay multipurpose court, a public-private partnership project, is also set to be completed. Minister Manickchand said the wider goal is to create a more comfortable and wholesome environment for residents, with improved streets, drainage and public spaces for families and children.
However, opposition members questioned why several projects approved in 2025 required additional funding or remained incomplete. Mahipaul pointed to approximately $2.7 billion spent under the same programme line last year and argued that some initiatives appeared unfinished despite the allocated funds.
In response, the Minister said shifting priorities, particularly urgent drainage works following heavy rainfall, led to adjustments in execution. Funds were redirected to agencies with the capacity to address immediate drainage challenges. She maintained that this year’s allocations are focused on completing outstanding works while continuing the broader enhancement of Georgetown.
