News
Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission Expands Community Parks and Recreational Centers Development Efforts
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
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 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.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.
The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders,
executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.
Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.
In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.
The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.
This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.
(Providenciales – Monday, March 2, 2026) TCI Hospital proudly announces the successful achievement of its Heart Strong TCI initiative, a comprehensive Heart Month campaign focused on raising awareness and strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlighting the critical need for sustained public education, risk-factor reduction, and early intervention. The Heart Strong TCI initiative was designed to actively engage the community through education, outreach, and physical activity.
Key Activities Included:
Educational Training Sessions
Healthcare professionals conducted structured sessions addressing hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol management, nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, and the early warning signs of heart disease.
House Call Talk Show Feature
A dedicated Heart Month episode of the hospital’s House Call program provided expert discussion on cardiovascular risk factors and prevention strategies, empowering viewers with practical, evidence-based guidance.
Red Fridays Awareness Campaign
Throughout the month, staff wore red every Friday to increase visibility around heart disease awareness and reinforce the campaign’s message within the community.
Heart Strong 5K Walk/Run
In collaboration with the Rotary Club, TCI Hospital hosted a community-wide 5K walk/run to promote physical activity as a cornerstone of
heart health. The walk/run also provided an opportunity for community screening.
Digital Health Education Campaign
To expand its reach, TCI Hospital also shared ongoing heart health education tips and prevention messages across its social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These posts provided actionable guidance on diet, exercise, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modification, and encouraging community members to learn CPR.
Heart Strong TCI: A Continuous Commitment
While Heart Month has officially ended, Heart Strong TCI represents an ongoing institutional commitment to cardiovascular disease prevention and awareness. TCI Hospital will continue to prioritize:
- Community-based education initiatives
- Preventative screening and early detection programs
- Lifestyle and wellness promotion
- Strategic partnerships that advance public health outcomes
“Heart Strong TCI is not limited to a single month,” CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant. “Cardiovascular disease prevention requires sustained effort. We remain committed to promoting healthy hearts across the Turks and Caicos Islands year-round.”
For more information about cardiovascular health services or upcoming screening initiatives, please contact TCI Hospital at 649-941-2800 in Providenciales, 649-941-2900 in Grand Turk or email us at info@interhealthcanada.tc
About TCI Hospital
TCI Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a strong emphasis on prevention, education, and community wellness.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Darius E. Ferguson as a Member of the Integrity Commission Board, serving as the Chartered Accountant Member in accordance with Section 3(2)(a) of the Integrity Commission Ordinance. His appointment is for a period of three (3) years and follows consultation with the President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Society of Professional Accountants.
Mr. Ferguson, with family ties to Providenciales and South Caicos, is a Chartered Accountant with over twenty years of senior leadership
experience across aviation, finance, technology and consultancy, he brings a strong and diverse background in financial governance, regulatory compliance and strategic planning.
A former Chief Financial Officer of Sky Bahamas Airlines for a decade, Mr. Ferguson managed all financial reporting, regulatory engagement, capital projects and commercial development initiatives. He previously served in senior audit roles at both Ernst & Young LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, leading high‑risk audit engagements and ensuring adherence to international financial and accounting standards.
Throughout his career, Mr. Ferguson has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional ethics, community leadership and organisational accountability. His experience across corporate governance, financial oversight, and operational risk management will bring valuable strategic insight to the Integrity Commission.
Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointment, stating:
“Mr. Ferguson’s extensive background in financial management, auditing and governance, together with his leadership experience across both corporate and community sectors, make him well‑suited to serve on the Integrity Commission. His appointment strengthens our ongoing commitment to integrity, transparency and accountability in public life. I am confident that he will make a meaningful contribution to the Commission’s important work.”
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