The East Ruimvelt Market is set to be transformed into a modern commercial hub, with the government, under the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, on Friday turning the sod for a new $528 million facility that will replace the ageing 48-year-old structure.
The redevelopment forms part of the government’s wider programme to modernise municipal markets, improve working conditions for vendors and create safer, more attractive spaces for shoppers.
The upgraded facility will include 237 modern stalls, wider parking lots, a designated area for vending spaces, and several new bridge entrances.
Speaking at the sod-turning ceremony, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand noted that the project is designed to support vendors by providing larger stalls, improved amenities and a more business-friendly environment.
She explained that the new market has been designed with vendors’ needs in mind, noting that many of the existing stalls are too small to accommodate businesses comfortably.
Under the new design, the smallest stalls will increase from approximately six feet by four feet to seven feet by eight feet, with larger options available for vendors requiring additional space.
The minister also indicated that the upgraded market is being designed to better accommodate different types of businesses, including the possibility of extended operating hours for vendors such as tailors and salon operators whose services often continue beyond the traditional market closing time.
Construction is expected to begin within weeks and be completed in approximately four months. To speed up the project, the five-phase project will be carried out by separate contractors.
Meanwhile, temporary accommodations will be provided at the market to allow vendors to continue their operations.
Once completed, the new market is expected to provide a safer, more modern and accessible environment for vendors and customers alike while strengthening economic activity within the community.