Belize City Council Eyes Major Revitalization of Historic Downtown

The Belize City Council is looking at ways to bring more life back to the historic downtown, with proposals for better sidewalks, restored buildings and more spaces for people to walk.  Council officials recently met with representatives of the Inter-American Development Bank, or IDB, to discuss a possible project covering Albert Street, Dr. Dame Minita Gordon Drive, formerly Regent Street, and the surrounding area.  Ideas include repairing and repainting building façades, improving traffic signs and upgrading public spaces. One proposal would create a pedestrian route linking the Swing Bridge, market area, courthouse and City Hall. Another is a waterfront boardwalk extending towards the House of Culture.  Mayor Bernard Wagner says the Council wants to preserve downtown’s history while encouraging more people to live and do business there. It is also looking into whether the IDB for Cities and Regions programme could help support that work.  Wagner says the Council will continue working with the IDB to develop the proposals.