JUTC Launches Route 512: Mandeville to Kingston Express Rolls Out Monday

Mandeville, Jamaica – The Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) is rolling out a brand-new express route connecting Mandeville to downtown Kingston, set to launch this Monday, July 28 — and commuters are buzzing.

Dubbed Route 512, the new line is a major move by the state-run bus company to open up affordable, long-distance travel between Manchester and the capital.

Starting Monday, commuters can board JUTC buses three times daily in either direction, offering reliable service for students, workers, and market-goers trying to avoid the hassle and cost of private taxis or multiple transfers.

🚌 Departure Times:

• From Mandeville: 5:45 AM, 10:00 AM, 3:10 PM
• From Downtown Kingston: 7:55 AM, 1:00 PM, 5:20 PM

💳 SmartFare Pricing:

• Adults: $500 JMD one-way
• Concession (students/seniors/disabled): $250 JMD
• Cash fare for all: $600 JMD

Each bus will hold 53 seated passengers, with standing room at 50% capacity, and rides will be based on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations—just line up and ride out.

Commuters in Mandeville can also visit Cecil Charlton Park between 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM on launch day, where JUTC reps will be on hand for SmartFare card sign-ups and top-ups.

Minister of Transport Daryl Vaz described the new service as a “game-changer for rural mobility”, while JUTC’s Comms Manager Shantole Thompson added that this marks a major expansion of service into underserved long-distance routes.

With rising gas prices and safety concerns on informal transport, the launch of Route 512 could signal a new era of secure, affordable, and government-backed commuting for south-central Jamaica.