Above: St Helena Eco Park. Photos courtesy TSTT.

[Editor’s note. Further to a request for information on how this service will be offered at the park, TSTT offered the following guidance. “To access the free Wi-Fi, users have to search for AMPLIA Wifi Eco Park. By the end of September 2023, the range will be extended to the full perimeter of the park. Currently, the service is open with no credential requirements/password.  There is also no time limit at the moment. This service is free to the public and part of AMPLIA’s investment in the communities of St. Helena and Kelly Village.”]

In a significant stride toward enhancing community engagement and connectivity, AMPLIA recently launched high-speed public Wi-Fi at the St Helena Eco Park in East Trinidad. This was unveiled during the annual Emancipation Day celebration hosted by St. Helena Development Corporation, signaling new connections for the park and its visitors.

The St. Helena Development Corporation, an NGO dedicated to developing the Eco Park since its inception in 2000, has transformed the green oasis into a thriving hub for the local community. Over the years, the park has not only become a popular destination for residents but also a venue for events that celebrate the rich traditions and heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.

The annual Emancipation Day celebration, which was held after the holiday to align with national festivities and the visit of Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Ashanti King of Ghana, was a momentous occasion for both the park and the community. It marked the official launch of AMPLIA’s high-speed public Wi-Fi service, granting patrons attending events or seeking recreation at the park access to fast and free data services on their devices. AMPLIA’s commitment to the community was further underscored by their sponsorship of official signage for the Eco Park.

Amplia brand ambassadors join the Emancipation Day procession at the Eco Park.

Sasha Lowhar-Best, Marketing Manager at AMPLIA, expressed the company’s dedication to expanding their reach across Trinidad and Tobago while collaborating with communities to enhance their quality of life. “Our partnership with the St. Helena Development Corporation represents our ongoing commitment to serving communities through our products and services,” she stated. “We not only aim to provide valuable services but also to understand the unique needs of each community and contribute to their well-being.”

The introduction of public Wi-Fi at the park received a warm reception from Bobby Maharajh, one of the directors of the Corporation. With approximately 200 daily visitors enjoying activities ranging from reading and relaxation to exercise and movie nights, the Wi-Fi connectivity promises to open new possibilities for the park. Maharajh remarked, “We anticipate hosting more events and welcoming students who can use the Wi-Fi for their studies. Visitors can also utilize their smart devices for health and wellness tracking during their workouts.”

He emphasized the Eco Park’s commitment to creating a healthy, safe, and secure outdoor space, highlighting the park’s investment in remote camera monitoring for added safety.

Situated in the vibrant St. Helena village in Piarco, the 10.5-acre Eco Park stands as a testament to successful land reclamation through the diversion of the Caroni River. The park boasts a 550M walking track, a bandstand, well-appointed restroom facilities, exercise equipment, and a reliable lighting system. It serves as the venue for numerous annual events, including Carnival celebrations, Divali, Eid, Christmas festivities, and national holiday observances. This model of green space management garners support from AMPLIA, further underlining their commitment to the community.

The installation of new signage at the park was not only long overdue but also thoughtfully considered by the Eco Park committee. Drawing inspiration from global park signage, the committee opted for a positive and encouraging tone in their messaging. Instead of employing negative reinforcement, such as ‘Do Not Litter,’ the committee chose softer, positive messages aimed at inspiring responsible use of the park’s facilities.

AMPLIA’s contribution to the Eco Park’s growth and its commitment to community connectivity resonate strongly with the mission of the St. Helena Development Corporation. Together, they are ushering in a new era of engagement and connectivity for this cherished green space in East Trinidad.