Morant Bay commuters welcome new shed at Hope Road Transport Centre

Users of the Hope Road Transportation Centre in Morant Bay, St Thomas are enjoying improved cover from the sun and rain following the construction of a shed by the St Thomas Municipal Corporation.

The busy centre, which accommodates buses and taxis, is mainly used by people travelling to the eastern parts of the parish such as Lyssons, Retreat, Prospect, Leith Hall, Port Morant, Pear Tree River, Dalvey, Bath and others.

Located near the scenic coast, the centre takes traffic from the busy Morant Bay town centre, reducing congestion and providing a safe, organised space for commuters.

However, the absence of a shelter from the elements has been a concern for residents.

In response, Mayor of Morant Bay Louis Chin spearheaded the construction of a large, open-air structure with roofing and adequate lighting for those who use the transport centre at night.

Chin said the initiative is a show of care for the residents.

“The people requested it. They asked for shelter from the rain and sun while they are awaiting public transportation. This was done to show we care for the people,” he said.

Residents have applauded the initiative, noting that the construction of the shed has made the use of the centre a more comfortable experience.

“I think it’s really good because waiting on a taxi can take a long time but having this and feeling the wind lessens the burden of waiting,” said Candice Brown, customer service representative.

She welcomed the open design of the structure, which, she said, allows the cool sea breeze to flow through the space, creating a calm, relaxing atmosphere.

“Everyone gets to enjoy nature at its best because before now, it was just the sun. Having shelter and being able to get that breeze coming in, it takes away the stress of waiting on a taxi and you get to meet with your neighbour and have talks and enjoy yourself,” she added.

Pear Tree River resident Melessa Hamilton, who is a frequent user of the transport centre, is expressing gratitude for the shed while conveying hope that similar works will continue so that infrastructure in the parish can be improved.

Jahvonie Henry is also pleased with the shed.

“There are elderly persons who use this area and, when they come, many times the sun is very hot down here or it is raining, so the shed is good,” he said.

“After hours, when it gets dark, there is now light here so that we can see. It helps us out in many different ways,” he added.

JIS