by Jennifer Hosten, Oakville, Ontario
Every time I return to Grenada and visit St George’s, the town of my birth, I see opportunities lost.
St George’s has long been described as one of the most naturally beautiful towns in the Caribbean. Others have gone further and see it as one of the most beautiful in the world. Why then does this town look so neglected? It seems to have become almost abandoned by people living on the outskirts. What would entice locals and others to visit the town and enjoy its history, architecture, forts, roads, deep water harbour and more? St George’s should be a UNESCO heritage site. Beyond UNESCO, let us consider some ways in which its assets could be improved to maximise the benefits for Grenadians, as well as the Tourist industry.
Let’s consider the following:
- Close all but one road to vehicle traffic in the town area. This will avoid the need to walk in gutters while navigating narrow roads downtown. If difficult for locals to navigate, just think of the tourists. The coast road could enable designated buses to provide transportation to and from the town
- Rebuild and update the library, train its staff, and convert one half to expand the museum
- Update the museum, preferably adding a wax museum to tell the story of Grenada’s historic heritage from the Caribs, colonialism, independence, revolution and beyond. This rich heritage needs to be imaginatively told for the benefit of Grenadians and the tourist sector
- Build a boardwalk, starting from the Esplanade and continuing to Grand Anse, for the walking pleasure of locals, as well as the tourist sector. Grand Anse beach is no longer adequate or desirable for that purpose
- Redo the market area, install public restrooms, coffee and souvenir shops
- Build a multi-level parking facility just outside of the town to facilitate cars, perhaps in Tanteen
- A bus service to connect with the parking and the downtown area
- In all cases, environmentally efficient vehicles to be explored, both for new cars and buses with adequate electric filling stations
These are just some ideas to enhance the Town of St George.
For me, it’s just my opinion, but I am going to mention it.why Grenadian have to complain about outside investment,when for years those who have doesn’t do anything,and when they do is just to reap their own benefit for years living in my country I have seen that and up to today it’s the same,in my next post I will explain more
An observation regarding Bathway beach:
The lovely bathing area is no longer as calm and safe as it used to be. It seems that since Hurricane Ivan some of the natural breakwater was damaged, causing gaps and openings allowing the rough water on the open side to come through. Filling in those gaps with a few boulders or discarded chunks of concrete, might be a cheap fix to that problem.
An expert in that area might have a good, practical idea.
Great idea about Bathway. This is a practical way of improving an area that has been a natural get a way for Grenadians. Makes it safer for all. Let’s hope your idea gets some traction.
You have a great idea here sir, especially the idea of reducing the traffic. One issue worth talking about that was not addressed, is the topography of the St. George’s town. Because of the steep hills in the town it makes it very challenging for tourists especially the seniors to navigate around and therefore less desirable than other alternatives like Grand Anse for instance.
All these ideas are great, but there was no mention of cost. Due to the neglect it will be high!
Why not utilise CBI?
Yes, there’s no profit, but as these individuals are wanting to invest, and above all hold a Grenadian passport be a Citizen of the country, why not ring fence a percentage for the regeneration of our Capital. Election fever is upon us, there will be numerous speeches about “investment” !
I lived and worked in Grenada some years ago and I will not understand why the carnage cannot be closed to vehicular traffic on a Friday or saturday night and have a weekly street party for locals and visitors to have a good time but for vendors to earn some money as well.
It doesn’t have to clash with Goyauves fish Friday or the event in Victoria.
The carnage event will have it’s own patrons since everyone cannot get to the north and back using the bus service.
It’s time to think outside the box and in some cases reinvent the wheel.
Fresh ideas, new thinking to void the stagnation.
Benjamin
Great idea. Museum should expanded and free students. The police station should be removed from the fort. Transferred to Tanteen/Lagoon/Back to NIS building.
The boats on the carenage adds character but should be reduced. Schooners traveling to Carriacou and Petite Martinique should be promoted. This can help protect boat building tradition.
Good list. Top pick 4 and 5.
Wow! Really good ideas and advice. I believe all of them, if implemented, will make a really big positive difference in not just St. George’s but Grenada (Grenadians) and its tourism. Also, this might encourage our people living abroad to want to return to their homeland more.
So true. When I lived in Grenada, I lived in the Centre of town and loved it. Now, years later, I stay away from the area as much as possible. The suggestions are excellent.
How about revamping the Carenage, as the original jewel of St George’s?