The Urban Development Corporation (UDC) will commence activities to facilitate construction of the new Houses of Parliament Building at National Heroes Park, during the current financial year.
Details are contained in the Jamaica Public Bodies Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for the Fiscal Year concluding March 2025.
As stated in the document, the project is in the procurement phase at approximately 86 per cent pre-execution.
The undertaking forms part of the redevelopment of the Park and surrounding infrastructure, with improved landscaping, spaces for outdoor sports activities, upgraded kiddies play areas, picnic areas, seating, a water feature, and jogging trail.
It is in keeping with the Government’s initiative to have safe, green spaces across the island to promote national wellness.
The construction of the new Houses of Parliament building is to be declared a national strategic project.
Other imperatives of the UDC for the financial year include completion of the Hellshire Sewage Treatment Plant Expansion, aimed at increasing capacity to accommodate the National Housing Trust (NHT) projects and other housing developments in the St Catherine community.
The UDC will also continue work to develop the Portmore Resilience Park, which will create a centralised green, wellness and entertainment space for the Portmore community and visitors.
The Park will include two elements – an open public space on approximately 20 acres of land with a transport hub/mixed-use facility on the remaining six acres.
The UDC plays a key role in fostering national growth by developing assets that are economically viable and environmentally sustainable.
