Minister with Responsibility for Works in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, Hon. Robert Nesta Morgan, says the Government remains resolute in its commitment to building resilient infrastructure as Jamaica begins the process of rebuilding following the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

Speaking during a damage assessment tour of roads in Southern Trelawny on Friday (November 7), Minister Morgan noted that the durability of Troy Bridge reflects the Government’s focus on resilience, guided by a directive from Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness.

“The Prime Minister instructed that any infrastructure we’re building over the next several years must have a resilience consideration in the budget, in the design, and in the execution. And we’re very happy that this bridge is demonstrating that resilience consideration,” the Minister said.

He added that this approach aligns with Jamaica’s national development priorities and climate adaptation strategy. The lessons from Hurricane Melissa, he said, have reinforced the need to modernise public infrastructure and reduce community vulnerability to flooding, landslides, and coastal erosion.

Minister Morgan noted that the Ministry, in partnership with the National Works Agency (NWA) and the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), is undertaking a comprehensive review of existing infrastructure to identify areas that require reinforcement or redesign in light of changing climate conditions.

Additionally, the Government will prioritise investments in sustainable building materials, advanced engineering solutions, and community-based maintenance programmes to ensure the longevity and safety of critical infrastructure across the island.

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