A new vision of St George’s

by Jennifer Hosten, Oakville, Ontario

Every time I return to Grenada and visit St George’s, the town of my birth, I see opportunities lost.

St George’s has long been described as one of the most naturally beautiful towns in the Caribbean. Others have gone further and see it as one of the most beautiful in the world. Why then does this town look so neglected? It seems to have become almost abandoned by people living on the outskirts. What would entice locals and others to visit the town and enjoy its history, architecture, forts, roads, deep water harbour and more? St George’s should be a UNESCO heritage site. Beyond UNESCO, let us consider some ways in which its assets could be improved to maximise the benefits for Grenadians, as well as the Tourist industry.

Let’s consider the following:

1. Close all but one road to vehicle traffic in the town area. This will avoid the need to walk in gutters while navigating narrow roads downtown. If difficult for locals to navigate, just think of the tourists. The coast road could enable designated buses to provide transportation to and from the town
2. Rebuild and update the library, train its staff, and convert one half to expand the museum
3. Update the museum, preferably adding a wax museum to tell the story of Grenada’s historic heritage from the Caribs, colonialism, independence, revolution and beyond. This rich heritage needs to be imaginatively told for the benefit of Grenadians and the tourist sector
4. Build a boardwalk, starting from the Esplanade and continuing to Grand Anse, for the walking pleasure of locals, as well as the tourist sector. Grand Anse beach is no longer adequate or desirable for that purpose
5. Redo the market area, install public restrooms, coffee and souvenir shops
6. Build a multi-level parking facility just outside of the town to facilitate cars, perhaps in Tanteen
7. A bus service to connect with the parking and the downtown area
8. In all cases, environmentally efficient vehicles to be explored, both for new cars and buses with adequate electric filling stations

These are just some ideas to enhance the Town of St George.