By Leon Jackson/Gleaner Writer—
WESTERN BUREAU—
The Trelawny Municipal Corporation has decided against moving the iconic fountain in Water Square, Falmouth, to facilitate the Usain Bolt statue.
Councillors have opted to have the area redesigned to accommodate both.
The decision is a compromise after a tug of war between persons who demanded that the fountain be untouched and others who want to honor the retired athletics phenomenon and the parish’s most famous son.
“Water and this square have been synonymous since 1805,” said Falmouth Mayor Collen Gager, in explaining some of the changes that have been made to the historic landmark.
“… This change to install the statue will maintain the history surrounding the square while accommodating the statue.”
Revisions were made in 1820 and as recently as 2011.
The statue will be placed on a three-foot-tall platform with eight spouts spewing water five feet in the air, Gager disclosed.
“Lights with colors depicting celebratory themes will be glowing at night. The operation will be solar-powered, and whatever extra power is generated will be sold to the Jamaica Public Service Company,” the mayor said.
A storyboard detailing the history of the fountain and the rise of Bolt, from his early days in his hometown of Sherwood Content to his retirement, will also be erected as part of the decor.
“Municipal police will be on duty at the square. He will be able to turn off the water so interested persons can pose by the statue for pictures,” said Gager.
An installation date has not been announced.
Public comments will be sought when the design is completed.
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