Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Hon. Matthew Samuda, today (January 21, 2025) toured the next phase of the Downtown Kingston Wastewater Improvement Project being done by the National Water Commission (NWC).

“The Prime Minister is aware of the sewage issue that has been affecting residents, businesses, and motorists of Downtown Kingston. While these pipes have been in existence for over 50 years, he has instructed the NWC to work swiftly and efficiently to alleviate the public’s concerns”, Minister Samuda explained.

This next phase will focus on Spanish Town Road, particularly the stretch between the Denham Town Police Station and the entrance to Coronation Market.

The works are being carried out under emergency procurement measures, and the NWC has engaged two suitable contractors who will undertake the replacement and installation of 2 segments of a 12-inch pipeline.

Segment 1: Approximately 290 meters of 300mm (12 inch) PVC sewer mains will be installed along Spanish Town Road from Water Lane to the Intersection intersections of Milk Lane and North Street.

Segment 2: Approximately 290 Meters of 300mm (12-inch) sewer mains along Spanish Town Road from North Street and extending to the intersection at Beeston Street.

“This project represents $160 million of the over $400 million being expended into this area. I wish to reassure the public that we are doing everything within our capacity to alleviate the discomfort and unsanitary situation being experienced”, Minister Samuda said.

In addition to the sewer mains replacement, a significant component of this phase will involve the interconnection of the Spanish Town Road transmission main into the Conveyance Line situated along Marcus Garvey Drive, which will continue until March 31, 2025.