Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness says the Government will advance the Hopewell and Lucea Bypass — running from a connection point on the Long Hill Bypass in St James, traversing westward with link roads serving both Hopewell and Lucea, before terminating on the westward side of Lucea.

The alignment will run approximately three kilometres south of the existing coastal road.

“This will unlock the entire waterfront stretch between Montego Bay and Negril as prime resort land,” Holness said Thursday during his contribution to the 2026/27 Budget Debate.

“In addition to the bypass, we intend to develop the Lucea Harbour into a premium boating destination,” Holness announced.

“Sheltered from the prevailing winds, with deep natural water, and proximity to the emerging resort belt between Montego Bay and Negril, Lucea Harbour has every natural attribute required to become a premium destination,” he said.

The prime minister warned that the town of Lucea itself is at risk for storm and wave action similar to Black River in St Elizabeth.

“I wish to indicate here that consideration is being given to an eventual construction of a new town centre for Lucea when the bypass is complete,” the prime minister said.