A multimillion-dollar coastal protection initiative in Annotto Bay, Jamaica, designed to shield the shoreline from erosion and rising sea levels, is now facing criticism for allegedly exacerbating flooding issues during heavy rainfall events. The $244-million project, part of the Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project, has come under scrutiny following significant flooding at the Annotto Bay Market last month.
Local officials including Port Maria Mayor Fitzroy Wilson and Councillor Hugh Bryan have identified the placement of offshore groynes as a primary concern. These structures, intended to slow wave action and accumulate sand to prevent erosion, are believed to have disrupted natural water drainage patterns. Mayor Wilson explained that during periods of high sea activity, water pushed back through drainage systems, carrying sand that ultimately blocked critical outflow channels behind the market.
The project, managed by the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) with funding from a World Bank loan and implemented by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund, was designed to protect three coastal towns from climate change impacts. However, the Jamaica Social Investment Fund has stated the flooded area falls outside their project footprint.
PIOJ Director General Wayne Henry acknowledged the longstanding flooding issues in Annotto Bay while clarifying that no groyne was placed behind the market by their contractors. He detailed that project engineers had actually created an improved drainage outfall through the revetment in May 2023 to address frequent blockages. Henry emphasized that this drainage channel requires regular maintenance to prevent debris and silt accumulation, noting that the high-water intersection point necessitates ongoing cleaning by relevant authorities.
Local vendors provided firsthand accounts of the flooding, describing thigh-high water levels that transformed the market area into “a natural sea.” They advocated for drain widening and improved maintenance, expressing particular frustration given the market’s recent $19-million renovation that concluded in mid-2025. This renovation included infrastructure repairs, bathroom facilities, and commercial shop construction.
Officials have recommended coordination between engineering authorities and the ongoing coastal project team, with Mayor Wilson suggesting future phases should extend further offshore to break waves before they approach the shoreline. Councillor Bryan additionally highlighted the need for attention to the Pencar River and dredging operations to comprehensively address the area’s flooding vulnerability.