Final report : evaluation of the Inner Kingston development project

The two principal implementing agencies are the Kingston Restoration Company Limited (KRC), a private nonprofit, public-purpose company, and the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), the primary developmental parastatal organization of the Government of Jamaica (GOJ). The KRC experienced some successes but had some shortcomings. In terms of overall expenditures, less money was invested in income-generating activities and more in non-income producing activities than originally projected (40% versus 10%). Non-income generating projects have helped to establish the KRC's credibility and further its revitalization objectives. The Urban Institute (the TA contractor) and A.I.D. staff were instrumental in facilitating the institutional development of the KRC. However, the KRC has not been able to generate enough income from its activities to support its operating expenses; income from fees and the sale and operation of properties has been less than projected. UDC's performance is disappointing in that some projects were not completed, including the Urban Bus Terminal and the West Kingston Markets project. Additionally, most completed projects were finished substantially behind schedule and at a far higher cost than budgeted. However, generally speaking, the results from such a relatively small amount of USAID funds are impressive. USAID has obtained good value for the funds it has provided. (Author abstract, modified)