Two-week timeline set for Square of the Revolution vendors’ relocation

Vendors operating at the Square of the Revolution are set to be relocated to a new site on Hadfield Street during the second week in May, as the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) moves to resolve the long-standing dispute over vending in the downtown area.

The decision was finalised during an extraordinary meeting of the council on Monday, where officials agreed to advance both the design and development of the alternative vending space. The move follows concerns raised by councillors about an increasing number of vendors occupying the Square beyond those initially identified.

Mayor Alfred Mentore said the council is working advance preparations at the Hadfield Street location to ensure a smooth transition.

“I want for us to speed up this process of the design and also the development of the area so that we can get them shifted to the location,” he said.

Based on the meeting’s discussions, the council is targeting Monday, May 11, for the full relocation of vendors. He also warned that any additional persons who attempt to occupy the Square outside of those officially recognised will be removed immediately, even as work continues at the new site.

“The additional people that come, outside of those, we will move immediately,” he said.

The Hadfield Street plan forms part of a broader effort by the city to provide a structured alternative for displaced vendors. The location is currently in its design phase, with considerations being made for layout, infrastructure, and cost-sharing arrangements between the municipality and vendors.

The issue of vending at the Square of the Revolution has remained contentious in recent months, with some vendors resisting relocation over concerns about potential loss of income.