Mobay chamber supports $17 million welcome sign for tourism capital

Winston Lawson, President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, says he supports the new $17-million state of the art ‘Welcome to Montego Bay’ sign at the Sangster International Airport round-a-bout.

“We saw images of what the final product will look like and I can say that the chamber believes that the standard that it’s at, we certainly wouldn’t want to see anything less than that standard,” Lawson told the Gleaner yesterday.

“The chamber regards that (sign) as an important enhancement to the tourism product here in Montego Bay.

“Montego Bay for us is not just the tourism capital of the Caribbean, we regard Montego Bay as the home of hospitality,” the chamber president continued.

“We certainly look forward to seeing its completion and do urge the authorities to ensure that it is done in the most efficient manner and cost-effective way,” he added.

Following an outcry a review of the project was ordered by Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett.

Lawson said his members support efforts geared at enhancing the city.

“There are members within the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce who have made resources available in the interest of our major industry (tourism), this is our bread and butter here in Montego Bay, so it’s a situation where it’s almost like a public-private partnership,” he said.

“So far, as far as I recall, you may have about $5 million already and I am sure that if other members of the private sector want to give more toward the project, it will not be refused.”

The previous welcome sign was damaged during a traffic crash earlier this year.

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