$625,200 Investment for Bella Vista’s New Market
A project valued at $625,200 to construct a climate-resilient market in Bella Vista, Toledo District, is getting underway following a project launch workshop involving government officials, the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) and community stakeholders.
The project is expected to benefit more than 10,000 residents in Bella Vista and surrounding communities. It is co-financed by a US$200,000 CDF grant and will provide a formal space for vendors and farmers who currently operate from roadside stalls.
CDF representative Kyron Barker said much of the commerce in Bella Vista takes place along roadsides without shelter, sanitation or security. He said farmers also travel long distances to reach markets, resulting in lost time, money and produce due to spoilage.
Barker said women make up a significant part of Bella Vista’s population and form the backbone of local vending, with many working in exposed conditions and serving as sole providers for their households.
The planned market will include vendor stalls, solar power, potable water, sanitation and a waste disposal system. Barker said the project will also include vendor training and arrangements for managing the facility once construction is complete.
Carlos Pol, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Economic Transformation, said the market is intended to create opportunities for farmers, mothers, young entrepreneurs and other residents to earn income and conduct business.
“This is not only about a building,” Pol said. He said the facility should create opportunities and become a driver of economic activity for Bella Vista and surrounding communities.
The project agreement was signed by Prime Minister John Briceño and the CDF on August 20 in Punta Gorda. Barker said the launch workshop is intended to establish the roles and responsibilities of the stakeholders and the steps needed to get the project moving.
The workshop also focused on meeting the conditions required for the first disbursement of funds without delay. Barker said the aim is to have the project properly organised from the outset so construction can proceed without unnecessary delays.