Milford Williams, Gleaner Writer
KENNEDY
IF YOU think the recent civil disorder in Spanish Town is just a reflection of the status of downtown Kingston, you could not be further from the truth. After suffering from a reign of crime, violence and disorder lasting decades, business in downtown Kingston is now enjoying relative peace.
According to Francis Kennedy, third vice-president of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce, there has been a 50 per cent reduction in major crimes other than homicide in the central Kingston area. Homicide is down by 12.5 per cent. The figures represent statistics over the period 2002 to 2005.
"Law and order has improved in downtown Kingston. This manifests in the fact that businesses now find it comfortable to open later, especially on Fridays and Saturdays when some now close between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m., compared to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. during tense periods," said Kennedy.
LAW AND ORDER CAMPAIGN
This has translated into the safe and successful hosting of events such as the annual New Year's Eve concert on the waterfront, which now attracts crowds of tens of thousands as well as the downtown carnival.
"In my opinion, I believe that the merchants are being cautious to see if the law and order campaign can be maintained," Mr. Kennedy said. This latest move to restore the city centre and adjoining areas to its full potential as a viable commercial area is a joint venture between the Kingston and St. Andrew Corporation (KSAC), the Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF), Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), and the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC).
The ISCF has been given special responsibility by the Ministry of National Security to maintain law and order downtown, he said. On average there are about 150 officers - mainly ISCF - who work on two shifts from Monday to Saturday.
Meanwhile, JCC president Michael Ammar Jr. is reporting that for some two years now the city has been experiencing steady business. "Crime downtown is almost non-existent, it is certainly more comfortable and easier to move around." However, he said the country's weak economic status translates into slow business in the area.
"Other regions are enjoying some activity. There is development of hotels on the North Coast, there is bauxite expansion in central Jamaica, but Kingston has no project going on," said Mr. Ammar. He mentioned a number of projects, including the renovation of the St. William Grant Park and the construction of a new public transportation centre, as part of the redevelopment of downtown Kingston which are yet to get off the ground. These projects are geared toward triggering a boost to business in downtown Kingston.
SOLID CUSTOMER BASE
Mr. Ammar and other entrepreneurs in downtown Kingston remain optimistic about continuing their operations there and serving the solid customer base they enjoy. Even the banking sector remains confident as RBTT and NCB recently consolidated branch operations into single entities on Duke Street, to provide better parking and more comfortable banking for customers.
"Our customers are satisfied with the new location and we've gained a significant amount from the merger. We need to stay downtown because we must satisfy customers there who are critical to us," said Loren Edwards, general manager for retail banking at RBTT. He added that there are no different challenges at Duke Street from other branches, and that they are quite happy where they are.
With the timely restoration of law and order, along with easier movement for pedestrians and motorists, Mr. Kennedy said downtown businesses must market and advertise that the business district has become welcoming for shoppers.
