World Bank, Jamaica Launch $12M Waterfront Revitalization Project to Transform Kingston

Kingston, Jamaica's most densely populated urban area and the core of its economic activity, faces significant challenges in terms of infrastructure, climate resilience, and public safety.

The World Bank and the Government of Jamaica have signed a $12 million investment agreement to revitalize the waterfront area in Kingston, Jamaica’s capital city. The project aims to develop an iconic, multiuse waterfront park that will serve as a hub for economic activity and social engagement, while also enhancing the city’s climate resilience and livability.

Addressing Livability and Economic Challenges

Kingston, Jamaica's most densely populated urban area and the core of its economic activity, faces significant challenges in terms of infrastructure, climate resilience, and public safety. The city’s historic downtown, particularly the waterfront area, has been underdeveloped for years, leading to high levels of crime, poverty, and social inequality.

The Kingston Waterfront Improvement Project is crucial in addressing these longstanding issues. It aims to create a vibrant public space that can improve the quality of life for residents, offer economic opportunities, and foster social cohesion. At present, only 11.3% of Kingston’s urban space is allocated to public streets and open spaces, well below the recommended 45–50% necessary for a city to function effectively and equitably. Expanding public spaces can enhance safety, health, and environmental benefits while creating economic growth opportunities.

Government Commitment to Urban Renewal

“This government is creating public spaces to serve the Jamaican people. This will revitalize downtown Kingston,” said Nigel Clarke, Jamaica’s Minister of Finance and Public Service. He emphasized that this project is a critical part of the government’s strategy to leverage economic stability to improve quality of life. “Lowering our debt is not an end in itself—it is a means to improving the quality of life for Jamaicans. Alongside income growth, we must create environments that support a high quality of life, and public spaces like this are a crucial part of that vision,” Clarke added.

Project Highlights

The first phase of the Kingston Waterfront Improvement Project, which runs from 2024 to 2029, will focus on the design and planning of a multi-use waterfront park. The park will offer a range of recreational and community facilities, including bike paths, playgrounds, sports grounds, and open areas for events. In addition, the park will integrate climate-resilient features such as floodwater management systems, energy-efficient buildings, and renewable energy generation.

Phase 1 will also emphasize economic development, providing training and support to local entrepreneurs and at-risk youth. Skills training will cover areas such as business development, marketing, and financial management. Local businesses will receive in-kind support, including energy-efficient appliances to help reduce operational costs.

“Urban renewal in downtown Kingston can be transformational – it is not just about rebuilding infrastructure; it's about creating thriving neighbourhoods that inspire economic prosperity,” said Lilia Burunciuc, World Bank Director for the Caribbean. “We hope that this project will be able to contribute to this vision through job creation, youth empowerment, and community engagement.”

Phase 2: Expanding Impact

Phase 2 of the project, scheduled to run from 2025 to 2030 with an estimated budget of $28 million, will focus on the physical construction of the park and associated small-scale infrastructure works. This phase will include urban upgrades in and around the waterfront area, promoting private sector investments and catalyzing further development in Kingston’s downtown core.

By the completion of both phases, the Kingston Waterfront Improvement Project is expected to benefit more than 700,000 Jamaicans, creating a more vibrant, economically dynamic, and climate-resilient capital city.

Transforming Kingston’s Future

The transformation of the Kingston waterfront represents a significant step in Jamaica's broader efforts to improve the livability and competitiveness of its capital city. By focusing on urban renewal, sustainable development, and community engagement, the project aims to reshape Kingston into a more inclusive, safe, and economically prosperous environment.