CITIZENS of Georgetown are voicing strong support for Government’s ambitious ‘Rescue Georgetown’ revival plan, which forms part of the National Urban Plan launched earlier this month by President Dr. Irfaan Ali. The initiative aims to restore the capital city to its historic reputation as the “Garden City,” while advancing sustainable urban development.

The plan outlines 15 landmark demonstration projects that will focus on green infrastructure, climate resilience, and the celebration of cultural heritage. Among the proposals are the transformation of the historic transport building and train station into a museum and training centre, the creation of walking trails throughout the city, immediate upgrades to the Stabroek waterfront, and improvements to key shopping areas.

For many residents, the initiative is both timely and inspiring. Katisha McIntosh, a city resident, said the plan holds great promise, particularly for educating the younger generation about Georgetown’s history.

“And not only for the little kids. We as adults, we kind of lack on those areas, so I think it’s a great idea to start implementing back those stuff to the nation,” she said. McIntosh also encouraged the Government to include the Georgetown Zoo in its restoration efforts, recalling the excitement of visiting the facility as a child.

Raymond Stephens, who recently returned to Guyana after nine years abroad, praised the country’s rapid transformation, especially the development of new roads. However, he noted that more attention should be paid to the city’s drainage system, particularly around Stabroek Market.

“The drainage got to get cleaning up in the city… so when rain fall water mustn’t flood up the city,” Stephens said, while still commending the restoration project as beneficial for all Guyanese.

Meanwhile, Makeda Cornette highlighted the initiative’s potential to boost the tourism sector, saying the revitalisation of Georgetown will showcase Guyana’s cultural and architectural heritage to the world.

“It plays a major role in Guyana because it then shows the world what we have to offer… If I were you, I’d want to see the very things continue in our beautiful country,” she remarked.

The ‘Rescue Georgetown’ plan is part of Government’s broader strategy to modernise infrastructure, preserve the nation’s history, and create a vibrant, resilient capital city that inspires national pride and attracts global recognition.