Dear Editor,

Whenever a major road improvement programme is announced in Jamaica, most of us focus on the visible results. We look forward to smoother roads, safer travel, and shorter commuting times. These are all important benefits. But there is another question that deserves attention: Are we doing enough to develop the people who will plan, build, and maintain our roads in the future?

For many years, Jamaica built a strong team of public sector professionals. Engineers, project managers, quantity surveyors, geologists, technicians, inspectors, and road supervisors were responsible for planning projects, supervising construction, and maintaining the country’s road network. They also responded when roads were damaged by heavy rainfall, hurricanes, and other natural events. Over time, they developed valuable knowledge and experience that became an important part of our national capacity.

Today, many road projects involve consultants who provide specialist services such as engineering design, project management, contract administration, and construction supervision. Consultants play an important role, especially on large or technically complex projects. Their expertise and experience can help improve project delivery and introduce new ideas and best practices.

At the same time, it is worth asking whether we are giving enough attention to developing the next generation of professionals within our public institutions. As experienced officers retire, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that younger engineers and technical staff have opportunities to learn, gain practical experience, and gradually take on greater responsibilities.

This is not a question of choosing between consultants and public sector professionals. Both have important roles to play. The greatest value is achieved when they work together. Major projects can provide excellent opportunities for knowledge sharing, mentoring, and practical training, helping to strengthen the skills and experience of local professionals while delivering quality infrastructure.

Roads are never truly finished. They require regular inspection, maintenance, rehabilitation, and occasional reconstruction throughout their service life. Jamaica’s roads will continue to face challenges from heavy rainfall, hurricanes, increasing traffic, and changing climate conditions. Meeting these challenges will always require experienced professionals who understand the country’s terrain, environment, and construction practices.

For that reason, the success of a road programme should not be measured only by the number of kilometres completed. It should also be measured by whether it leaves behind stronger institutions, a more experienced workforce, and greater technical capacity to manage the road network in the years ahead.

Investing in roads is essential, but investing in people is equally important. Well-trained engineers, project managers, technicians, and inspectors are just as critical to the country’s future as the roads themselves. Strong institutions and skilled professionals help ensure that today’s investment continues to deliver benefits for many years to come.

In the end, one of the greatest achievements of any infrastructure programme is not only the roads it builds but also the people it develops. When we strengthen both, we are building a foundation for safer roads, better public service, and a more resilient Jamaica.

Denton Moore

dentonmoore2002@yahoo.com