Construction begins on long-promised Falmouth welcome sign

Construction has begun on the long-promised welcome sign for Falmouth in Trelawny.

The project was announced more than a year ago with construction promised to begin in summer 2023.

Executive Director of the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) Wade Mars told The Gleaner that work on the welcome sign is now underway and that the project is being undertaken in phases.

“It will involve three phases. How it works is that there is a concrete structure, then some artistic elements which are put on the concrete, and a third which will include the landscaping around it." 

Mars said it should be finished within four to six months.

Pressed on the cost of the project, which has not been disclosed to the public since it was first announced, the TPDCo head said he did not have the information at hand at the time of the interview with The Gleaner.

Previous welcome signs constructed by TPDCo cost millions of dollars and it is expected to be the same for the Falmouth sign.

“Whereas we are cognisant that these things cost a lot of money we also have to bear in mind value for money. It is expected that it will be a wow experience for both visitors and locals. It is expected that it will drive the economy of Falmouth."

The construction of welcome signs in tourism areas forms part of TPDCo's Jam Iconic Experience project.

Already, $12 million was spent on the welcome sign in Negril, Westmoreland and over $14 million on the one in Montego Bay, St James.

The initial price tag for the MoBay sign was some $17 million but was revised following heavy public and political pressure. 

Meanwhile, Mayor of Falmouth Collen Gager and Councillor for the Falmouth division Garth Wilkinson welcomed news of the construction of the sign. 

"We look forward to the completion and the positive effect it will bring to the town's attractions and the spin-off to the economy," said Gager.

- Leon Jackson

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