ST THOMAS, Jamaica — A significant milestone in Jamaica’s public infrastructure revitalization has been achieved with the official reopening of Yallahs Market in St Thomas. The Ministry of Local Government and Community Development has completed the first phase of comprehensive reconstruction works, restoring the facility to vendors and shoppers.
The renovated market, situated in the heart of Yallahs Square, now features structured vending spaces, enhanced lighting systems, and modern sanitary facilities. This initial transformation addresses long-standing concerns about market conditions and vendor accommodations. A subsequent phase of renovations will focus on expanding stall capacity outside the main building and implementing full facility paving.
At the March 27 opening ceremony, Portfolio Minister Desmond McKenzie emphasized the government’s commitment to fulfilling promises made to local vendors. Recalling his 2018 visit when he found vendors operating outside closed gates, McKenzie stated: ‘I gave a commitment that once the lease expired, we would not renew it but instead revitalize the market properly. Today, I’m here to honor that commitment.’
Minister McKenzie transferred responsibility for the market’s future success to the community, urging stakeholders to ‘treat our markets with the respect they deserve.’ In support of vendors during the ongoing second-phase construction, the ministry will continue waiving market fees throughout April.
Morant Bay Mayor Councillor Louis Chin welcomed the development as opening ‘doors to new opportunities and better facilities for our citizens,’ noting the market now provides ‘a more dignified and modern space for both vendors and shoppers.’
Kevin McIndoe, CEO of the St Thomas Municipal Corporation, highlighted the broader implications of the renovation, explaining that the market aims to ‘provide a clean, organized space for vending and buying, strengthen public health and sanitation standards, and reduce roadside congestion and disorder.’
The timing of this infrastructure improvement aligns with major national investments in St Thomas, including the Morant Bay Urban Centre and the Southern Coastal Highway Improvement Project. Municipal authorities emphasize that modernized facilities are essential preparation for expected parish growth and development.