NEGRIL, Jamaica — Visitors and residents alike are set to see major improvements in the road network on the west end of the island following the ribbon-cutting ceremony held last Thursday for phase one of the West End Road Rehabilitation Project in Negril.

The $42 million initiative, led by the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), is part of the Government’s broader strategy to modernise key infrastructure in high-impact tourism zones.

The project, funded and managed by the TEF, includes comprehensive roadworks, modern drainage systems, de-bushing, and drain cleaning. These improvements aim not only to enhance road safety and connectivity but to reinforce the link between tourism development and sustainable community growth.

“This is more than a road project,” said Senator Delano Seiveright, minister of state in the Ministry of Tourism. “This is about building connectivity between our communities, our tourism industry and our economic future. Negril contributes close to a third of the US$4.3 billion in tourism earnings. Investing in Negril means investing in Jamaica’s growth.”

Phase two of the project is expected to commence shortly and will extend the rehabilitation further along the west end corridor.

Member of Parliament for Westmoreland Western Morland Wilson also underscored the significance of the initiative, stating, “Negril is no longer a sleepy town. It’s now a vital part of our national tourism engine. This road was among the first calls from stakeholders when I took office. Today, I’m proud to say, we’ve delivered.”

The improvements are expected to have a wide-reaching impact, encouraging both locals and visitors to explore beyond hotel properties and into local attractions and businesses, unlocking economic opportunities for small entrepreneurs, artisans and service providers.

Seiveright also highlighted broader infrastructure investments planned for western Jamaica. Among them is the Western Parishes Water Supply and Resilience Improvement Programme, which is a $67.5 billion Government initiative spanning five parishes: Westmoreland, Hanover, St James, Trelawny, and St Ann.

The programme is expected to add 35 million gallons to the national water supply, increasing national capacity by 18 per cent and bolstering drought resilience.

Further developments include bypass roads in Hopewell and Lucea, as well as the ongoing Montego Bay Perimeter Road and Long Hill Bypass projects, aimed at easing traffic congestion and reducing travel time between Montego Bay and Negril.

Plans for the long-anticipated Negril International Airport are also progressing, with the master plan completed and currently under review through the Public Investment Appraisal process.

With phase two of the West End Road project set to begin soon, TEF remains committed to delivering high-impact, future-ready projects that promote inclusive growth and resilience across Jamaica’s tourism ecosystem.