KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government has unveiled a comprehensive infrastructure development strategy targeting the restoration of 47 critical bridges across the island through its Accelerated Bridge Programme. The announcement was made by Robert Morgan, Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, during a recent session of the Standing Finance Committee at Gordon House.
Minister Morgan revealed that multiple bridges located in parishes hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa require immediate attention, with three structures sustaining severe storm damage demanding urgent intervention. The infrastructure initiative forms part of a broader rehabilitation effort that includes 11 roadways scheduled for complete reconstruction using funds allocated in the 2026/2027 national budget.
The government is further advancing its road network improvements through the Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) programme, which continues to facilitate ongoing roadway rehabilitations across the island.
In a significant environmental infrastructure development, Minister Morgan detailed an allocated $1.3 billion emergency fund designated for extensive works on the Sandy Gully in St. Andrew—specifically addressing concerns in the Cassia Park area—along with simultaneous interventions in the North and South Gullies of St. James. The minister emphasized the government’s proactive approach to disaster prevention, noting: “Confronted by urgent events, the Government has shown a propensity to make additional allocations to ensure the prevention of disaster in case we need to do additional works in our gullies.”
The Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development continues to prioritize sustainable national development through strategic focus on land management, housing solutions, urban renewal projects, investment facilitation, and critical infrastructure enhancements, implementing key policies designed to stimulate economic growth while strengthening Jamaica’s infrastructure resilience.