MINISTER PICKERSGILL ENDORSES NEW KINGSTON 'TREE-MENDOUS' BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT

Minister Robert Pickersgill was a participant at the launch of the New Kingston 'Tree-mendous' Beautification Project which took place on the grounds of the National Commercial Bank, Trafalgar Road on May 25, 2004.

The project was introduced by the Ministry of Transport and Works through the National Works Agency in 2002 and was influenced by the ambition to develop the main road network to internationally accepted standards. The objective of the programme is to improve the aesthetic standard of the main roads.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Pickersgill noted that the 'Tree-mendous beautification project is one more example of the commitment of civic-minded Jamaicans, in partnership with the Government, to making our country a cleaner and more beautiful one."

Five corporate entities were involved in Adopt-a-way and beautification project. These are National Commercial Bank, Guardian Life Insurance Company, J.N Real Estate, Life of Jamaica and Jamaica Mortgage Bank Ltd. Each of the five entities will pay $200,000.00 per month for the maintenance of the roadway under the terms of the project.

In commending the entities involved in the project, Minsiter Pickersgill said, ' It goes without saying that activities such as these are welcomed and encouraged by this Ministry. Let me also appeal to corporate entities to seriously consider and support the effort being made to erect a number of monuments along Knutsford Boulevard.' He observed that the project was a unique opportunity for more corporate entities and civic associations to become involved in the maintenance of roadway sections.

The National Works Agency for its part has supervised the installation of special signs that inform all who use the roadway, about the contributions of all concerned. It is expected that the transformation of the roadway (Trafalgar Road) that the companies have paid for will occur in approximately four weeks.

Minister Pickersgill highlighted the fact that the beauty of the foliage that is evident along Tragalgar Road is a monument to the importance of the partnership between Government, corporate bodies and civic associations. Against that background, he said he looked forward to the benefits that the public will receive from the programme and he hoped that many more businesses would avail themselves of the opportunity to make the country more beautiful.

Officials from the various companies involved in the beautification project were on hand to make presentations and members of Guardian Life and students of Ardenne High School entertained.