The Ministry of Tourism is optimistic that its plan to establish dedicated entertainment zones in downtown Kingston could soon be a reality following sound tests conducted in the area last Friday.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism and Entertainment, Damion Crawford, yesterday told The Sunday Gleaner that tests were conducted at six potential entertainment zones in parking lots in downtown Kingston.
According to Crawford, the ministry is awaiting the results, but so far it appears that only one of the selected areas might not be suitable.
“So far, based on what I have heard, the UDC (Urban Development Corporation) parking lot along the waterfront might create a little problem for us, because an apartment complex is located close to there,” said Crawford.
“The bus station, the bus terminus located on Darling Street and the Water Lane Transportation Centre may affect some west Kingston residents, but as said earlier we are still awaiting the results from the tests,” added Crawford.
The sound tests were carried out by experts to determine how parties and other events with loud music would affect residents of communities close to the areas being considered as entertainment zones.
The results of this test would determine whether the concept of entertainment zones could be duplicated islandwide as part of the Tourism Ministry’s plan for 24-hour entertainment areas.
Other parking lots in downtown Kingston being considered as entertainment zones include the Pechon Street parking lot and Lot 20 located along Kingston’s waterfront.
