KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) will utilise approximately $220 million to undertake road rehabilitation works across the municipality, Mayor of Kingston Andrew Swaby has announced.

The funds, drawn from the Parochial Revenue Fund and channelled through the Divisional Allocation Fund, will support essential repairs in all 40 divisions.

“All 40 divisions will see essential road work carried out in their communities, whether through patching, resurfacing, or repairs to critical sections,” Swaby said.

He explained that the programme is a direct response to residents’ repeated concerns about potholes, damaged surfaces and poor road conditions. However, he acknowledged that the allocation will not be sufficient to address all parochial roads under the corporation’s care.

“We wish we had additional resources, as more funding would allow us to make a significantly greater impact on road conditions throughout Kingston and St Andrew,” the mayor noted, adding that the KSAMC must adhere to strict procurement guidelines to ensure compliance and value for money.

Meanwhile, the corporation has begun preparations for the 2026 Jamaica Carnival season. An initial meeting with all bands and J’ouvert promoters was held on Tuesday, January 27, to review issues from last season and discuss solutions aimed at enhancing the overall Kingston experience.

All bands have committed to providing production teams to work closely with the City Engineering Department to ensure that structures erected for events are safe for patrons. The department will also host a workshop to guide production teams through the approval process and ensure full compliance.

The KSAMC will further facilitate meetings with organisers of watch parties and other carnival events to ensure applications are submitted on time. The National Solid Waste Management Authority has been engaged as a key committee member to ensure the city is restored promptly following the Road March on April 12.

Promoters are required to submit application forms and supporting documents by Friday, March 6, 2026. Applications received after that date will not be considered. Swaby said the measures are designed to ensure safety, smooth operations and a successful carnival season.

In addition, the mayor urged business operators to comply with the KSAMC’s ongoing signage regularisation campaign ahead of a March deadline.

Since the campaign’s launch in January, 98 businesses have been formally invoiced, and consultations held with key representatives of the business community, including the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Association of Jamaica. The corporation has also committed to quarterly meetings with outdoor advertising companies to address concerns, clarify regulatory requirements and maintain dialogue.

Swaby said the KSAMC has undertaken extensive sensitisation and outreach efforts, utilising radio, social media, its website and traditional media, despite not having a dedicated advertising budget.

“As such, claims of lack of awareness cannot serve as a basis for non-compliance,” he said.

He reminded stakeholders that the display of advertising signs is regulated under the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Regulations, 1978, and the Kingston and St Andrew Building Act, 2018. Approval and payment for signage are statutory requirements and compliance is mandatory for all entities with publicly displayed signage.

The mayor also noted that while a temporary signage amnesty is in effect, signs that do not meet stipulated requirements will not be approved. The campaign applies to all forms of public signage, whether commercial or otherwise.