Workmen have begun clearing the site of the proposed downtown Kingston transportation centre, but already there are concerns that the location might not be ideal for commuters and transport operators.

The East Central Taxi Route Association (ECTRA) is requesting an urgent meeting with Transport and Works Minister Mike Henry, Kingston Mayor Desmond McKenzie and the Police High Command to discuss concerns about the security of the area.

Speaking with The Gleaner yesterday, president of the ECTRA, Mike Bennett, contended that the proposed site at Water Lane was too far from the main shopping areas and that the plans were not discussed with taxi operators. He also wanted to know whether taxis and buses would be allowed on Orange Street after 5 p.m. Bennett also wants word on the status of a taxi stand in the vicinity of Parade.

Security risk

Bennett complained that much of the area was made up of abandoned warehouses and factories and was a haven for the homeless and other squatters, thus posing a security risk.

According to Bennett, "Commuters are complaining about the new location and JUTC may even lose some of their revenue because people will not be going so far to get on the buses for security reasons."

But Henry yesterday downplayed the possibility of such a risk, pointing out that the addition of lights and other shopping facilities would eliminate such concerns.

"In terms of the approach of the ministries, everywhere is safe, and if there is a need for security measures, we will address the matter. Therefore, when we are looking at the transport centre in downtown Kingston, it is no less safe to me than Half-Way Tree or any other area," Henry told The Gleaner.

The plan for the new transport centre is one of several redevelop-ment projects earmarked for the capital city over the next few years as part of the Jamaica Labour Party's administration.

Regarding downtown Kingston, Henry explained, "The transport centre relates to a multimodal approach establishing a link between the railway and the road. We are trying to think above the pressures that exist and improve the whole aspect and indeed the whole of downtown Kingston, as the new Government's plan is for Kingston to be a new financial sector and the whole of downtown needs to follow."

- T.F-B.