Sh15bn plan to transform Embu town into a modern city launched

Embu town will be transformed into a modern city complete with two by-passes, a railway line, modern stadium and recreational parks, according to an integrated strategic development plan released yesterday.
Once the plan is implemented, the city will boast of dual carriageways, ring roads, pavements on all roads, multi-storey parking spaces and dual carriageways.
The plan was prepared by Intercontinental Consultants and Technocrats Ltd and will be implemented in the next 20 years.
The purpose of the plan is to provide a framework for integrated socio-economic development, investment and development control of the town in a sustainable environment.
It was presented to Governor Martin Wambora and would be approved by a cabinet meeting today.
Wambora said implementing the plan that would cover about 102 kilomtres squared of Embu town and its surroundings would cost Sh15billion
"The program will be partly funded by the World Bank in conjunction with the National Government and is aimed at transforming the County into an agribusiness, industrial, transport and tourist hub and de-congest Embu town," said Wambora.
He said the World Bank has already embarked on Sh280 million storm water project that will improve drainage in Embu town.
Wambora said they will ensure maximum use of land adding that those living close to the affected areas will be reallocated and compensated.
"We are working closely with Britam Insurance and Housing Finance construct Sh3 billion new housing units targeting the middle class residents. We are targeting available government land and have identified 82 hectares of Government land where the new housing units will be constructed.
"We will take over some Kenya Agriculture Research and Livestock Organisation and provide them with another land in Mwea near River Thiba," said Wambora.
He said already, they are sourcing Sh300 million to shift the sewerage plant 30km from the town along the Embu-Kiritiri road.
Wambora said a recreational park will be established at the existing sewerage site.
He also said they are working with development partners to start the construction of the final phase of the Embu stadium at a cost Sh100 million before the end of this year.
He said the phase will involve constructing a tartan track where marathoners can do their practice before going for international competitions.