National Heroes Park - Redevelopment

Redevelopment

National Heroes Park is currently undergoing a series of major renovations. Plans for alterations to the park had been discussed as far back as 1998, but it was not until 2000 that a plan was formally announced. The initial plan called for four phases of construction and a total project cost of $200 million, but delays in work have increased the estimated final cost has to $250 million. The plan calls for the division of the park into four zones: an amphitheatre for formal and cultural activities, a nature area with shade trees, an outdoor activity and recreation area with tracks and playgrounds, and a combined administrative and sports complex.

As of 2006, only the first phase of construction has been completed, with most work to this point focusing on irrigation, parking, and lighting, with some additional work on the gardens and the Eventide memorial. The project's slow pace has been attributed to financial difficulties, as well as administrative changes in the government personnel overseeing the renovations. Funding was to be provided by the government, the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica, and private donors, but private donations have been scarce due to the park's close proximity to several depressed neighborhoods and high-crime ares.

The Jamaica National Heritage Trust announced plans for a monument to Hugh Shearer in 2006. The monument will be located near those of Michael Manley and Donald Sangster, and its design will be determined by an open competition.