THE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT ENHANCEMENT PROJECT

A part of The Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development’s George Town Revitalisation Initiative, the Central Business District Enhancement Project (“CBDEP”) is upgrading underground infrastructure in downtown George Town to prepare the city for future redevelopment and enhancing its public spaces to create a better pedestrian experience, attract new businesses and boost private investment in the central business district.

PROGRESS REPORT

MARCH 2024

  • CUC and WAC completed Phase 1, 2 and 6 underground upgrades along Edward Street, from Shedden Road to northeast Judical Administration Building.

  • CUC undertaking Phase 3 works, along northern Edward Street, in 75 foot sections.

  • Robson Construction commenced Phase 2 overground works, installing new deep and fire wells, and electrical work for new lighting plan at the George Town Post Office intersection.

  • RCIPS added more pedestrian and vehicle detour signage in the area. 

ACTIVE DIVERSIONS

MARCH 2024

  • Phase 3 of the NRA Traffic Diversion Plan is in effect, affecting motorists traveling along Edward Street, Main Street, Cardinall Avenue and Dr. Roy’s Drive.

  • The full schedule of diversions for the coming months is available to download here.

ABOUT CBDEP

CBDEP is an Integral part of the George Town Revitalisation Initiative, and the largest project to date under the initiative. Its efforts will significantly enhance the George Town experience through design elements, such as better sidewalks, street lighting and public spaces, and amenities, including free public wi-fi and drinking water, and support our long-term vision to enhance the wellbeing of our people and our planet.

PROJECT PHASES

  • PHASE I: CARDINALL AVENUE

    The pedestrianisation of Cardinall Avenue between Seafarers Way and Albert Panton Street saw asphalt replaced with colourful concrete pavers, that continue down to Edward Street, as well as enhanced street lighting, landscaping and pedestrian access.

  • PHASE II: GEORGE TOWN POST OFFICE

    The reconstruction of the intersection in front of the George Town Post Office is creating better connectivity between Cardinall Avenue, Edward Street and Main Street, via a public pocket park that centres around a piece of public art by a local artist.

  • PHASE III: MAIN STREET

    The final phase of the project will create connectivity within the CBD. In the future, it will be easier to explore the city, run errands on foot, or hang out on street furniture underneath shady mature trees - enjoying a healthy lifestyle and helping to reduce traffic pollution and congestion.

LATEST NEWS

MARCH 2024

CBDEP Phase Two continues to progress, as works move in to the third phase of the NRA’s Traffic Diversion Plan. Phase Three will be undertaken in sections of approximately 70 feet at a time along the northern stretch of Edward Street, to help minimise disruption to businesses and pedestrians in the area. At the same time, Robson Construction also commences the next stage of overground enhancements at the George Town Post Office intersection

KEY DESIGN FEATURES

  • CONNECTIVITY

    Plans have ben devised to enhance the pedestrian experience, and connect central George Town using public footpaths and crossings, making it more accessible for all.

  • POCKET PARKS

    Public spaces in the central business district offer seating, shading, public art and other amenities, including wi-fi and drinking water, available to all for free.

  • LIGHTING

    A lighting strategy has been developed in consultation with city lighting experts, which will see huge improvements to the quality of street lighting in George Town.

PROJECT PARTNERS