Rockfort gets Internet cafe

Residents of Rockfort in Kingston now have easier access to Internet and other computer-related services with the establishment of a community access point (CAP) in the community by the Universal Service Fund (USF) at a cost of $2.6 million.

The Rockfort Internet Cafe, located at Glasspole Avenue, is equipped with 13 desktop computers, two printers, one server unit with supporting network capability, a projector and screen, as well as desks and chairs.

The 258th CAP site to be established, it is a homework and research centre for residents, serving several districts, including Pleasant Heights, Johnson Town, Rennock Lodge, Shanty, Norman Gardens, and Springfield.

Solar panels are to be installed at the location at a cost of $3.5 million in keeping with the Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology's thrust for all CAP sites to be equipped with solar solutions in order to cut down on operating costs.

At the commissioning ceremony on Friday, director of projects at the USF, Everold Simms, said that the cafe would "serve as a gateway to self-improvement" and encouraged the residents to take care of the facility.

"This centre belongs to you. You are the custodians, and I expect that you will protect and care it," he said.