MBCCI welcomes MoBay perimeter road project
THE Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) is giving the Government the thumbs up for the construction of the Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project (MBPRP) which is now under way.
The positive reaction comes amid concerns over traffic congestion in the tourism capital of Montego Bay, St James, and the growing demand for ease of movement in the city.
The MBPRP, which is being implemented by China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC), through the National Road Operating and Constructing Company Limited (NROCC), includes the design and construction of a 15.1-kilometre Montego Bay Bypass and the Long Hill Bypass.
The project will also involve the rehabilitation and upgrade of Barnett Street and West Green Avenue and a comprehensive drainage study for the Montego Bay Bypass area.
As such, the MBCCI believes that the development will play a pivotal role in the growth and development of Montego Bay.
“It’s a well-known fact that one of Montego Bay’s biggest problems is traffic. This is a good problem to have as it means the city is growing. In recent times, we’ve moved from a two-lane road with roundabouts to a four-lane highway with traffic lights, and we’ve outgrown that as well,” said Jason Russell, president of MBCCI.
According to Russell, the major road development project will ease congestion, attract new investment, enhance the quality of life for residents, and solidify the city as a leading business destination in Jamaica.
“The city is growing faster than we can build infrastructure. This perimeter road is a solution that was needed as it represents the commitment by the Government to staying on this path of sustainable growth. While the tourism product continues its tremendous expansion on the coast, we now have the ability to grow and support the industry from the interior of the island. Speaking on behalf of the business community, we applaud the Government on this initiative. I can’t wait to see the project completed,” Russell added.
The Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project is approximately 55 per cent complete and is scheduled for completion in May of next year.
The Prime Minister Andrew Holness Administration has described it as an important step towards building a more resilient and competitive city that will meet the needs of both private and public sectors.
