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The Government of Jamaica, through The Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ), is now evaluating contractors to undertake the redevelopment of the Hampden Wharf located in Falmouth, Trelawny, Government procurement documents state.

The plan includes restoring and renovating the old world charm of the forgotten wharf in order to appeal to cruise liners as an alternative stop in the town.

It is the latest push to make tourism more inclusive for the residents and local vendors who are largely shut-out from the multi-million dollar Falmouth Cruise Pier, the biggest business in the town. As the ships dock, the tourists are bused away to tour attractions.

Up to February 6th, the PAJ invited contractors with over a decade of experience to bid on this contract. The redevelopment of Hampdem will be just under J$1 billion, according to the Ministry of Tourism documentation.

The works will include the renovation of four main buildings to maintain the old world stone masonry shell, while including modern electrical, telephony and plumbing works. These buildings will also be retrofitted with management offices along with scores of store space for artisans, restaurants and retailers. This development will also come with street-side redevelopment for the town. The redevelopment is slated to last for three from its start.

The wharf should facilitate the distribution of the cruise tourist spend beyond large tour and retail stakeholders.
In December, in a separate move, the Jamaica Tourist Board signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbnb, the largest room-sharing booking company which allows travelers to avoid traditional hotels. The Ministry of Tourism stated that the agreement will widen the tourism product to average Jamaicans. But that it will also seek to safeguard the destination by establishing hosting standards and best practices for home-stay facilities.