Vendors and community groups in Aishalton, Region Nine, will soon have a dedicated space to sell food and farm produce as work nears completion on a new $5 million vendors’ arcade.
The Ministry of Amerindian Affairs is funding the initiative, which includes two buildings designed to provide a clean, spacious environment for trading.
One will house four enclosed food stalls, while the other will provide an open area for vendors selling farm and other local produce. The stalls will be furnished before they are made available for use.
The enclosed building measures 48 feet by 15 feet, with each of its four compartments measuring 12 feet by 10 feet. The open building will be the same overall size.
Deputy Toshao Michael Thomas said construction is approximately 92 per cent complete, with mainly internal works remaining. Construction works are being executed by community members.
Toshao Thomas said the concrete food vending facility will include serving outlets, sinks, plumbing and stoves for warming food.
Meanwhile, women’s and youth groups, along with other interested users, will be able to rent individual stalls or the entire building. The revenue generated from the rentals will be utilised to maintain the facility.