Preparatory Work on National Stadium’s Running Track Begins

Preparatory work to rehabilitate the running track at the National Stadium in Kingston, has started.

The resurfacing project has received support from Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, and the Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Fayval Williams, who has secured funding of some US$350,000.

In a recent statement issued by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Portfolio Minister, Hon. Olivia Grange, said that the running track will undergo a complete resurfacing in time for upcoming sporting events.

She said there was a window of opportunity for the work to be done between the conclusion of the Gibson McCook Relays (February 22) and the start of the ISSA/Boys and Girls Championships in March.

“We’re working around the clock to put everything in place,” the Minister said.

She informed that a new supplier, Rekortan, with 50 years of international experience in track development, has been engaged to do the job.

Minister Grange said that materials have already been shipped and engineers are in the island doing preparatory work.

She pointed out that the new track will feature the latest performance technology and will present a bold image of Jamaica to the world, starting with Champs in March, followed by the global Grand Slam Track event in April.

“There is a lot of work to do, but we’re committed to providing the best facilities for the best athletes in the world,” the Minister said.

“We will work as hard as our athletes to ensure Jamaica’s success,” Ms. Grange added.

Since 2021, the Ministry has undertaken ongoing maintenance works on the running track. However, a recent assessment of the running track has highlighted the urgent need for a complete resurfacing.

The National Stadium is managed by Independence Park Limited.