In a bold move aimed at transforming the Kingston 2 area, real estate developer Sherbourne Limited is pumping J$2.1 billion into the construction of the Kingston Two (K2) Apartments on two acres of land off Windward Road in east Kingston.

The project includes the development of 119 units overlooking the Kingston Harbour on 2 Fairbourne Road, with a range of living spaces consisting of studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, Lisa Lake, CEO of the Lake Group, shared that her family is excited to be investing in the community.

“We as a group of companies and, in particular, as a family are very excited to be investing in the community and to create this opportunity for beautiful waterfront multi-story apartments in this neighbourhood. Not only are we willing, we are proud to be the first movers in this way, as we believe in Jamaica,” said Lake.

Studio apartments span 374 square feet, starting at J$16.2 million. One-bedroom apartments are 738 square feet, priced at J$28.8 million; while two-bedroom apartments will measure 827 square feet, starting at J$34 million.

Residents will have access to unobstructed sea views, as well as amenities such as roof terrace with a fitness centre and plunge pool, an outdoor entertainment deck, CCTV and magnetic door entry, among others.

The Windward Road area is typically associated with high levels of crime and violence. However, the developer and political representatives have sought to assure buyers that the complex will prioritise safety for its residents.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness, in hailing the developer for the investment, acknowledged the risk involved in building a high-end complex in an area known for its challenges. He, however, expressed optimism about the positive impact the development will have on the community.

“I know that [they] are hiring from the area. I know that all the masons and the carpenters, and the electricians and painters are going to get employment here, so the community is going to benefit. But the benefit does not stop at the construction phase,” said the prime minister during his keynote address at the groundbreaking ceremony.

He added that with 119 units available, “all the shops around here now have new customers, so it’s going to help the business of the area. Consider as well that it is going to attract new people to the area”.

Holness stressed that the investment is a risk, but it could only fail if residents do not appreciate and protect the investment.

Member of Parliament for Kingston East and Port Royal, Phillip Paulwell, echoed similar sentiments, pointing out to potential buyers that crime in the area has improved.

“We have given the investors our assurance that I want to see this project developed as a model for the Corporate Area,” said Paulwell.

He added: “We’re truly very happy to be here. People hear about us sometimes negatively in the news. I want to salute the police who are here… for working closely with the political representatives to ensure that this year our crime rate has been down and our murders have been down.”

The reports were confirmed by Superintendent Tomilee Chambers, who shared that murders have decreased by 4.2 per cent.