Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Horace Chang, Minister without Portfolio with responsibility for Works, Hon. Robert Nesta Morgan, Homer Davis, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Mrs. Arlene Williams, Managing Director, Mr. Stephen Edwards, NROCC among other critical participants toured the Montego Bay Perimeter Road to see the progress.
Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, yesterday (October 16, 2024), toured the Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project to assess the progress of one of the country’s most significant infrastructure developments. The project, valued at US$274 million, is being implemented through a Design-Build Construction Contract between the Government of Jamaica (GOJ), and the China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC). The National Road Operating and Constructing Company Limited (NROCC), an Agency of the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation (MEGJC), is responsible for the project’s execution.
During the tour, Prime Minister Holness noted the importance of the Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project in transforming the transportation landscape of western Jamaica. “This is not just a road project; it’s a vision for a better future. Montego Bay is the hub of tourism and business in the western region, and its infrastructure needs to reflect that growth. By providing an alternative route around the central business district, this road will alleviate traffic congestion, improve mobility, and open up new areas for development,” the Prime Minister stated.
The scope of the project includes the construction of the Montego Bay Bypass, rehabilitation and expansion works on Barnett Street and West Green Avenue, the construction of the Long Hill Bypass, and a comprehensive drainage study for the Montego Bay area. Once completed, the Montego Bay Perimeter Road will significantly reduce the hours spent in traffic, improving the quality of life for residents and commuters.
Prime Minister Holness also highlighted that the project is part of a long-term plan for sustainable development in Montego Bay. “For decades, we have built roads without adequately planning for future growth. Today, we are seeing cities emerge, and this project is critical to addressing the challenges that come with such growth. This road will last us for another 100 years, providing not just immediate relief, but long-term solutions for the people of Montego Bay and St. James.”
The Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project will improve the flow of traffic and enhance the overall road network, while also supporting economic growth by facilitating easier access to commercial areas. “This road is designed to take excess traffic away from the heart of Montego Bay, allowing businesses to operate more efficiently and commuters to spend less time on the road. Ultimately, this project will increase Jamaica’s productivity,” Prime Minister Holness added.
He further underscored the government’s commitment to using Jamaican resources for national development. “This project is fully funded by Jamaican taxpayers. Unlike in the past when we depended on international grants, we are now able to use our own resources to build critical infrastructure. This is a sign of the progress we have made in strengthening our economy,” Holness remarked.
The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the work done so far and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the project is completed on time and within budget. Prime Minister Holness was joined on the tour by Deputy Prime Minister, Dr Horace Chang, Minister without Portfolio with responsibility for Works, Hon. Robert Nesta Morgan, Homer Davis, Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Mrs. Arlene Williams, Managing Director, Mr. Stephen Edwards, NROCC among other critical participants.
The Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project is scheduled for completion in 2026 and is expected to dramatically enhance the region’s transportation infrastructure, support tourism, and stimulate economic opportunities for local communities.