Nearly 5,000 Streetlights Repaired in Three Weeks, Says JPS

KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) is ramping up its streetlight repair efforts across the island to enhance safety and brighten the holiday season for Jamaicans. The company has embarked on a focused repair initiative targeting nearly 5,000 streetlights over the past three weeks.

Senior Vice President of Energy Delivery at JPS, Blaine Jarrett, emphasized the company’s commitment to working with local authorities to improve illumination islandwide. “We have been working closely with stakeholders, including the municipalities, to ensure that towns are especially well-lit during this festive season,” he stated.

Challenges and Collaboration

The repair schedule was initially disrupted by Hurricane Beryl and further impacted by damage in severely affected areas. JPS is also collaborating with the National Works Agency (NWA) to repair government-owned streetlights, including those along Bogue Road and the Elegant Corridor in Montego Bay.

Addressing Contributing Factors

Orlando Mckoy, Director of Transmission and Distribution Asset Management, highlighted the significant impact of theft and motor vehicle accidents on streetlight functionality.

“The number one challenge the company contends with is the theft of electricity fixtures,” Mckoy explained, citing locations like the Palisadoes Strip, Dyke Road, and Hellshire main roads as areas frequently targeted by thieves. JPS urges residents and authorities to report incidents and assist in bringing perpetrators to justice.

Continued Efforts

While significant improvements are expected for the 2024 holiday season, JPS will continue repair works throughout the first quarter of 2025.