New Amsterdam to get modern market, vendors’ hub

New Amsterdam in Region Six is set to be modernised under the Model Village Initiative, with the government unveiling plans for a remodelled municipal market, a dedicated vendors’ hub, upgraded drains, and expanded fire hydrant coverage.

During a consultation with residents on Saturday at the Berbice High School, President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali said the initiative is designed to build a “system of living” that gives communities pride, dignity, and safety.

He noted that the transformation must comprise infrastructure, environment, and people.

“In the Caribbean, market represents vibrancy, but vibrancy does not mean a marketplace must be a disorganised, rowdy place where you’re sometimes afraid to take your family.  The market can be very vibrant, orderly, disciplined, pleasing, and somewhere that you enjoy.”

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, presented the technical details, saying several teams conducted detailed mapping and condition surveys of the town, covering roads, drains, utility poles, and public buildings.

The survey identified 235 locations where construction material or waste is obstructing road shoulders, and 148 locations with accumulated garbage – all targeted for removal.

He said at least 200 utility poles require replacement or reinforcement. The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) will coordinate relocation of utilities ahead of civil works.

The ageing New Amsterdam Municipal Market will be replaced by a modern, zoned facility featuring separate sections for produce, meat, fish, dry goods, and garments, as well as a food court.

A dedicated New Amsterdam vendors hub is also planned to relocate roadside vendors into a regularised, hygienic space with proper vehicle access.

The plan includes concrete drain upgrades, new designs for the community’s interlock drains, and installation of fire hydrants throughout New Amsterdam.

Dr Singh said security camera coverage will expand significantly under the Safe City programme, following a directive from President Ali to accelerate rollout in major urban centres.

The Esplanade will undergo beautification, including a children’s play area, gazebos, and sporting facilities such as tennis and basketball courts. Roads will also receive standardised signage, sidewalks, street lighting, and landscaping.

Minister Singh said works will proceed in phases, beginning with utility relocation, followed by drainage, pedestrian access and road improvements, and green space development. Residents affected by reserve encroachments will receive advance notice to relocate structures such as fences before works begin. [DPI]