Prime Minister Declares Jamaica’s Deteriorating Roads a National Emergency

Kingston, Jamaica – Prime Minister Andrew Holness on Thursday declared Jamaica’s deteriorating road network a national emergency, announcing an immediate J$2 billion allocation for repairs to the island’s main roadways damaged by persistent rains.

Speaking at a Jamaica House press conference, Holness emphasized the urgency of the situation, describing the initiative as essential to returning the roads to a drivable condition. “This will be done, following the law as well, using emergency procurement rules. We expect that the work will begin immediately,” the Prime Minister stated.

The new allocation is in addition to the J$3 billion already being utilized under the REACH (Road Enhancement and Community Health) programme.

To tackle the widespread issue, the National Works Agency (NWA) will leverage 21 Grade One contractors and use methodologies approved for emergency procurement. These contractors will be deployed across the country to conduct patching and reinstatement work as quickly as possible.

Holness acknowledged that while the additional J$2 billion will significantly improve road conditions, it will not be sufficient to repair all affected areas.

In a related announcement, Holness revealed that the China Harbour Engineering Company (CHECC) has been awarded the $45 billion SPARK contract. The project involves the rehabilitation of 600 roads nationwide, signaling a long-term commitment to enhancing the island’s infrastructure.

The government’s swift action comes in response to mounting public concern over the state of the road network, worsened by weeks of heavy rainfall.

Jamaicans are urged to exercise patience as emergency repairs begin and plans for broader infrastructural improvements take shape.