A ceremony marking the launch of the new Urban Renewal Authority was held at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Auditorium on Monday.

Minister of Housing and Urban Renewal, the Hon. Keith Bell was one of the speakers at the event. During his presentation he spoke to the stability that they new status will provide for those working for Urban Renewal. He said, “no longer must they fear that a change in the political atmosphere will force them to abandon the work they love. As we stand at this threshold let us remember that Isaiah’s words do not promise an easy road. They remind us that those from among you shall build the old waste places implying that they labour, the sacrifice and initiatives must ultimately come from among us.”

Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis was also in attendance. He told those gathered, “we are pleased that the program has expanded to Grand Bahama…and other Family Island communities. From community policing to a robust small homes repairs program and senior citizens club Urban Renewal is a multi pronged initiative driven be the idea that when communities come together real change happens.”

Also in attendance was Governor General, Her Excellency the Most Hon. Dame Cynthia Pratt, former Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Perry Christie, several cabinet ministers and other dignitaries.

Urban Renewal began approximately two decades ago in the Farm R