Kingston Needs a Night Manager

by Carole Beckford

I agreed so much with Carole, that I asked ChatGPT to summarise her article and so here is it.

Kingston, renowned for its cultural vibrancy in music, art, and sport, is brimming with potential for night-time activities that could bolster its economic and social appeal. From the artistic flair of downtown and the bustling charm of Cross Roads to the cosmopolitan energy of New Kingston, each area offers unique opportunities to create vibrant night-time zones. Downtown’s creative spaces and venues like the ROK Hotel could thrive with curated art and music events. Cross Roads, with its untapped personality, could transform into a street-food haven. Meanwhile, New Kingston could see strips of Knutsford Boulevard and Dominica Drive evolve into elegant wine-and-dine hubs, complete with live music and alfresco seating.

To realize this vision, the introduction of a Night Manager, based in the Mayor’s Office, could be transformative. This role would serve as a bridge between the entertainment industry and consumers, ensuring organized activities tailored to each area’s energy. Responsibilities would include creating zones for diverse activities, managing industry participants’ databases, driving economic initiatives, and facilitating training for service providers. By promoting a structured, customer-centric approach, the Night Manager could elevate Kingston’s night-time economy while fostering a cleaner, more organized city.

This initiative would require collaboration between government agencies like the JTB, TPDCo, and TEF, alongside private sector organizations such as the PSOJ and JMEA. A strategic team, overseen by the Mayor’s Office, could spearhead the effort, blending daytime business life with a dynamic evening culture. By prioritizing parking, safety, and hospitality, Kingston could become a model for urban night-life innovation, enhancing both local and visitor experiences.