The Laikipia County Government has injected Sh115 million for the rehabilitation of Nanyuki bus park, aimed at spurring development in the region.
The project, which has already kicked off, is funded by the recently acquired Sh1.16 billion infrastructure bond, which targets to upgrade about 10 smart town initiatives in Laikipia.
In an exclusive interview with KNA, Laikipia County Chief Officer in charge of infrastructure Eng. Duncan Mwangi said the upgrade of the bus park will increase parking area, which equates to more revenue collection for the county.
He noted as part of the Nanyuki smart town, they will also upgrade drainage systems and tarmac walkways around the Bemwaki area.
“We have done the procurement and some contractors have already started the work. Nanyuki Bus Park is part of the Nanyuki smart town programme. We want to attract investors and promote Small and Medium Business enterprises and at the same time create job opportunities,” said Mwangi.
He noted that previously Nanyuki Bus Park was inaccessible, especially during rainy seasons, thus affecting people who operate their businesses in the park.
“With this project, we want to ensure Nanyuki Bus Park is well paved so that we don’t have vehicles bogged down when it rains and yet owners are taxpayers,” said Kamau, adding that the business community around the bus park had requested for a public toilet, which they will also put up.
The bus terminus which acts as a central point for vehicles plying to Nairobi, Meru and back among other areas in the Mount Kenya Region is expected to have about 200 parking spaces for Public Vehicle Services when complete.
The Chief Officer said the Nanyuki Smart Town initiative is expected to take eight months to be completed, adding that street lighting will also be installed.
He assured the business people that they will not be moved from where they were operating from, noting that there was consensus before the project was initiated.
Samuel Wamae, matatu operator attached to Nyena Sacco at the Nanyuki Bus park said the construction is a relief since the structures will be permanent and long lasting.
On his part, James Maina, a hawker at the bus park said the construction will ease their day-to-day operation.
He noted that initially it was a challenge to do their businesses due to the deplorable condition of the bus terminus.
They called-on the county government to provide them with waste collection bins, aimed at keeping the park tidy.
By Muturi Mwangi
