News

Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission Expands Community Parks and Recreational Centers Development Efforts

Published

1 month ago

December 16, 2024

Deandrea Hamilton

Fence installation at the Leeward Palms Community Park

PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE Turks & Caicos Islands Sports Commission

Newly installed gazebos

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, December 16, 2024 — The Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission (TCISC) is proud to announce significant advancements in its ongoing initiatives to refurbish and enhance community parks and recreational centres across the islands. These efforts are part of the Commission’s unwavering commitment to creating safe, functional, and attractive spaces that enrich the lives of residents and foster a sense of community.

Recognizing the importance of accessible and well-maintained recreational facilities, the Commission has implemented aggressive measures to improve security, functionality, and aesthetics at various sites. This includes an expansion of cleaning, grounds-keeping, and security contracts to ensure that these spaces remain safe and welcoming for all.

The Sports Commission is also grateful for the invaluable support of the Ministry of Infrastructure, which has contributed to these enhancement efforts both through its support in capital project implementation and through funding via its Community Enhancement Programme. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to creating vibrant and safe spaces that benefit all residents.

The current works to facilitate the mini football pitch

Felix Morley Community Centre

Last year, significant interior upgrades transformed the Felix Morley Community Center into a dynamic community hub, featuring a boxing gym, dance studio, and computer lab. This year, the focus shifts to the exterior with plans to:

Repair and restore gazebos near the beach.
Install a mini football pitch.
Develop a children’s playground.
Create a multi-purpose courtyard.

Leeward Palms Community Park

In Leeward Palms, the Commission is enhancing security features by installing CCTV systems and improving fencing. Work will also include refurbishing the park building to include an office space, and upgrades to the playground, ensuring a safe and enjoyable space for children and families.

Juba Sound Basketball is under construction to improve fencing and basketball court

Juba Sound Community Park

The Juba Sound Community Park will see an exciting collaboration with the Sandals Foundation, which is sponsoring the resurfacing of the basketball court and the installation of new equipment. The Commission’s capital program will complement this effort by adding:

An enhanced playground facility.
Improved fencing and additional amenities.

Kew Town Park Basketball court being resurfaced

Kew Town Community Park

The Kew Town Park is poised to become a standout community space. Planned upgrades include:

Resurfacing the basketball court.
Installing a world-class, shaded playground.
Refurbishing the park building to include an office space.
Enhancing security features.

Community Benefits

Works being done to host the new shaded playground area

These upgrades and refurbishments will provide immense benefits to residents of all ages, including:

Safe Spaces for Recreation: Improved security features and maintenance will ensure that families, children, and individuals can enjoy these facilities with peace of mind.
Increased Physical Activity Opportunities: New playgrounds, football pitches, and resurfaced courts encourage healthier lifestyles and support youth development through sports and recreation.
Stronger Communities: Refurbished and enhanced facilities create gathering places for residents to connect, host events, and foster a sense of belonging.
Youth Development: Spaces like the Felix Morley Community Center and Juba Sound Park offer resources for skill-building, creativity, and mentorship through sports and educational programs.

A Word from the Minister of Sport

Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth Sport, Culture and Library Services shared her excitement about the projects, stating:
“These community parks and recreational centres are essential to improving the overall well-being of our people. By investing in these facilities, we are not only creating safe and beautiful spaces for families and individuals but also fostering healthier lifestyles and stronger communities. I commend the Sports Commission for their dedication to enhancing the quality of life across our islands and ensuring these spaces remain accessible to all. By providing a safe, inclusive and engaging environment, community parks play a vital role in mitigating violence and fostering a culture of peace and cooperation”

CEO of the Sports Commission, Jarrett Forbes, added:
“With the support of the Minister of Sports, we are committed to investing in spaces that bring people together, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide safe and functional environments for all residents. We are also deeply thankful for the Ministry of Infrastructure’s collaboration and financial support, which has been instrumental in bringing these projects to life.”

The Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission invites the public to stay tuned for updates and the official unveiling of these revitalized community spaces.

Related Topics:#magneticmedianews #tcicommunityparks

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Government

TCI POST CABINET MEETING STATEMENT – 11 DECEMBER 2024

Published

8 hours ago

January 20, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

Turks and Caicos, January 20, 2025 – Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 41^st meeting of Cabinet held on December 11^th, 2024. All members of Cabinet were present with the exception of Hon. Rhondalee Knowles, Attorney General, with Ms. Khalila Astwood acting as Attorney General.

At this meeting Cabinet:

Considered proposals related to the 2022 Crown Land Review Report.
Approved the mutation of parcels 60603/57, 60610/316, 60700/107, and 20313/47, 58 & 59 and for the same to be vested with the TCI Airports Authority.
Received a presentation on proposals on the integration of Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) technologies into programs at the Turks and Caicos Community College.
Approved the management authority of parcel 60503/315 to the Turks & Caicos Islands Sports Commission for multi-purpose use for the development of a community park and recreational facility.
Received a presentation from the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission on the establishment of a National Sports Training Centre.
Received a presentation from the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission regarding the establishment of a Department of Parks and Recreation.
Received a presentation from the Ministry of Health on matters relating to the National Health Insurance Board.
Approved the re-appointment of Mrs. Angela Musgrove as the Chief Executive Officer of Invest Turks and Caicos for a three-year term.
Approved the appointment of Mr. Henry Wilson as a member to the Fisheries Advisory Committee.
Noted the award of the following contracts in line with the process according to the provisions of the Public Procurement Ordinance; Contract Award Notification:

PN 005690, TR 24/09, Upgrading Bight Park
PN 005729, TR 24/23, Vehicles for Immigration

PN 005730, TR 24/08, DDME Communication Equipment – Mobile Antenna

PN 005765, TR 24/31, Redevelopment of Regatta Village
TCINIB 01/2024, TR 24/26, Vehicles for NIB

Further information on these matters will be presented by Ministers in due course.

Government

TCI POST CABINET MEETING STATEMENT – 4TH DECEMBER 2024

Published

9 hours ago

January 20, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

Turks and Caicos – Her Excellency the Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam chaired the 40^th meeting of Cabinet held on December 4^th, 2024. All members of Cabinet were present, with the exception of Hon. Jamell Robinson, Deputy Premier and Hon. Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles, Attorney General, with Ms. Khalila Astwood, acting as Attorney General.

At this meeting Cabinet:

Approved the Turks and Caicos Islands Fiscal Strategic Policy Statement.
Approved the negotiation of a Development Agreement/Order with Retreat Development Ltd.
Approved the transfer of excess revenue from the Consolidated Fund into the National Wealth Fund for the Financial Year Ending 31 March 2024.
Approved Planning Application PR 17673 for a proposed watch tower and rest station on block and parcel 60000/345 for the TCI Regiment.
Approved the negotiation of a license agreement with the Proprietors of Balfour Salt Ltd. for a period of 10 years.
Approved the policy document for the use of Biometrics and Introducing an Electronic Travel Authority Requirement.
Approved the appointment of Mr. Lynden Hall Snr. as a member of the Turks and Caicos Islands Gaming Control Commission Board for a period of two years.
Approved the write-off of water charges and penalties in accordance with Section 52 of the Public Financial Management Ordinance 2012.

Further information on these matters will be presented by Ministers in due course.

Bahamas News

BNT Releases 2023-2024 Impact Report Highlighting Conservation Achievements

Published

9 hours ago

January 20, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

January 20th, 2024 – Nassau, Bahamas – The Bahamas National Trust (BNT) proudly announces the release of its 2023-2024 Annual Impact Report, which documents key conservation milestones achieved from January 2023 to June 2024.

Highlights from the report include: completion of the BNT’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan – a comprehensive roadmap to guide the organization’s efforts over the next five years; the declaration of Seahorse National Park in Eleuthera as the country’s 33rd national park; advancements in critical scientific research and the creation of conservation plans aimed at protecting endangered species; major infrastructure improvements in national parks, enhancing visitor access and recreational opportunities; and new strategic partnerships with local and national organizations for collaborative national park management.

“The past 18 months have been a pivotal chapter for the BNT,” said Lakeshia Anderson-Rolle, Executive Director of The Bahamas National Trust. “With the unwavering support of our members, donors, and partners, we’ve expanded our national park system, advanced critical conservation efforts, made major infrastructure improvements in national parks, and connected thousands of Bahamians to their parks. These achievements underscore the power of collaboration and inspire us to continue building a future where people and nature thrive together.”

Looking to the future, the BNT’s 2024-2029 Strategic Plan prioritizes enhanced park management, tackling climate resilience, addressing invasive species, and strengthening community partnerships to ensure the sustainability of The Bahamas’ national parks.

The Bahamas National Trust extends heartfelt thanks to its supporters for making these achievements possible, and invites everyone to explore the full 2023-2024 Impact Report on its website at https://bnt.bs/2023-2024-impact-report/.

To learn more about the BNT’s role in managing national parks, protecting wildlife, and informing environmental policy, please visit its website: www.bnt.bs, and follow its various social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.