Dear Editor,

I am writing to express my optimism regarding the Government’s Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) initiative, which I believe represents the best hope for addressing Jamaica’s long-standing road infrastructure challenges.

For decades, our nation has been plagued by poor road conditions, a problem that dates back to the late 1970s when our road network measured approximately just under 12,000 kilometres. Despite the fact that this network has more than doubled, the quality of our roads has failed to keep pace with the increasing volume of traffic.

In 2022, the Island Traffic Authority reported that 575,041 vehicles were certified fit to use our roadways, a slight decrease from the previous year. This decline in the number of vehicles examined underscores the urgent need for improved infrastructure. With an aging road network and an ever-growing number of vehicles on our roads, SPARK could not have come at an opportune time.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced in a statement to Parliament that the SPARK program, set to commence on December 15, 2024, has the potential to bring about the most significant positive change in our road infrastructure since Independence. However, we must learn from the past; the promise made on May 3, 2002 by then People’s National Party (PNP) Minister of Transport and Works Robert Pickersgill, who stated that “by 2003 Jamaica’s roads would be pothole-free” remains unfulfilled. At that time, the Government had allocated approximately $750 million to patch roads.

It is crucial that we approach this new initiative with a clear plan and public engagement to avoid repeating history. In a recent statement, the minister with responsibility for road and works, Robert Nesta Morgan, highlighted the need for a comprehensive database of all roads in Jamaica. While the Government plans to create a website through the Ministry of Finance and Public Service’s Public-Private Partnership programme, we must recognise that many citizens, particularly those in communities most affected by poor road conditions, may not have the means or inclination to navigate online resources.

To effectively reach these communities I strongly urge the Government to adopt more accessible communication methods. Here are some suggestions:

1) Town criers: Utilise town criers to disseminate information directly within communities, ensuring that everyone is informed about the SPARK initiative and the specific roads to be repaired under the programme.

2) Radio and television ads: Simple and clear advertisements on local radio and television can effectively reach a wide audience, particularly those who may not have Internet access.

3) Social media campaigns: An aggressive social media campaign leveraging influencers on platforms like TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X can engage younger demographics and spread awareness rapidly about SPARK.

4) Monthly divisional meetings: Mandate all 63 Members of Parliament to hold monthly divisional meetings to update communities on the progress of road repairs under the SPARK initiative. This face-to-face engagement will foster transparency and community involvement.

5) Pop-up Presentations: Organise presentations at local churches and schools, and utilise community billboards to disseminate information on the SPARK road programme effectively.

If the SPARK programme is implemented and managed effectively, I am confident that Jamaica can finally achieve pothole free roads by 2033.

I must commend this Government for taking the decisive action ensuring that our road infrastructure reflects the needs and aspirations of all Jamaicans.

Christopher McCurdy

kristophe60@hotmail.com