Level 8 Grand Opening Signals Confidence in Black River’s Future– State Minister Seiveright

The grand opening of Level 8 – Bakery, Dining and Gaming Lounge in Black River, St. Elizabeth, stands as a powerful declaration of confidence in the parish’s economic future, coming just months after Hurricane Melissa devastated the historic town.

This, according to Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Hon. Delano Seiveright.

Speaking during the opening on Saturday (February 28), Mr. Seiveright noted that the Government is enthusiastic about the redevelopment of the ‘breadbasket’s’ capital and what it signifies for private sector resilience.

He emphasised that the timing of the opening is significant, as barely four months after the passage of the catastrophic Category Five system that left much of Black River in ruins, Level 8’s launch sends a clear message that the town is “open for business.”

“We at the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, and the broader Administration, are excited about this development,” Mr. Seiveright stated.
Level 8 – Bakery, Dining and Gaming Lounge is a modern, multi-concept establishment located in the heart of Black River at Cawley’s Plaza.

Developed by the Cole family, the venture combines bakery services, full-service fine dining, a contemporary gaming lounge, and a safe, structured recreational environment. It also offers complimentary Wi-Fi, positioning itself as a vibrant hub for both residents and visitors.

During a recent job fair, 112 applicants were interviewed, signaling immediate employment opportunities.

“So, Hurricane Melissa went by, [and] what we have here is a display of resilience, not retreat. It is also important to show that commerce is back, and [proprietor] Mr. Richard Cole and the family deserve a great round of applause for getting this place up and running. I’m genuinely impressed,” the State Minister said

Meanwhile, Mr. Seiveright indicated that the Government remains fully committed to restoring Black River—not merely to its former state, but to a new standard of sustainability and climate resilience.

Among the infrastructure plans outlined were the development of the Treasure Beach aerodrome to accommodate turbo-prop planes and small private jets, with US$2.9 million already committed.

He further highlighted the expansion of the South Coast Highway, noting that a new section from Williamsfield to Hodges will bypass Junction, Southfield, and Black River, significantly reducing travel time from Kingston.

“The significance of this town is not lost on us. We are moving at record speed to get this entire corridor not only restored but redeveloped and reimagined into something that we can all be proud of,” Mr. Seiveright underscored.

For his part, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Level 8, Richard Cole, emphasised that the opening was not merely a personal or family achievement, but the launch of a high-standard hospitality enterprise designed to generate jobs, support other businesses, attract visitors, and foster community pride in Black River.

He indicated that the new establishment would elevate the overall quality benchmark for hospitality in the town while creating a competitive economic stimulus.

“We are dedicated to setting a new standard in fine dining and becoming a destination that this community is proud of,” Mr. Cole stated.

President of the St. Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce (Black River Chapter), Kadian Myers-Brown, noted that the investment comes at a critical time when other businesses are leaving and closing their doors.

She said the opening represents a strong vote of confidence in the town’s future and that the new establishment will play a vital role in restoring the economic viability of Black River.