CAPEX Programme Propelling Infrastructure Upgrades Toward a Modernised Jamaica – PM Holness

The Government’s Special Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) Programme represents a strategic initiative to modernise urban infrastructure by integrating road, drainage, sewerage and broadband upgrades.

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says this effort aims to enhance public safety and traffic management.

He informed that under the programme, work on Grange Lane is 90 per cent complete, with the next major project being the dualisation of Braeton Road and sections of the Hellshire Main Road at a cost of $2.4 billion.

“Other projects include the Arthur Wint Drive extension, and we have expanded the original scope to include the stretch from Arthur Wint Drive to Tom Redcam Drive and Camp Road, incorporating sewerage and additional water infrastructure, ensuring greater benefits for residents, businesses and future developments,” Dr. Holness said.

He was speaking during his 2025/26 Budget Debate presentation in the House of Representatives on Thursday (March 20).

Dr. Holness also informed that the Government will invest $2 billion to enhance key entrance corridors leading into the capital city, Kingston, thereby creating a more attractive and welcoming gateway.

This initiative, he said, will focus on major thoroughfares, including the roadway from the Norman Manley International Airport to Mountain View Avenue, from the roundabout to Port Royal, as well as Six Miles to Dunrobin Avenue and Six Miles to Portia Simpson Miller Square through to downtown Kingston via Spanish Town Road.

“The project will begin with pre-investment works, including design planning and community consultations. These upgrades will not only beautify Kingston’s points of entry, but also enhance infrastructure, improve connectivity and create a positive impression for visitors and residents alike,” Dr. Holness stated.

Meanwhile, bypass road projects in Port Maria, Santa Cruz, Lucea, Annotto Bay, and Hopewell/Sandy Bay remain under planning and development.

Dr. Holness stated that the Port Antonio Bypass is set to begin in fiscal year 2025/26 following the completion of a feasibility study.

Under the Accelerated Bridge Renewal and Priority Bridge Programmes, the Government is upgrading or replacing over 55 critical bridges.

To this end, work on the Craig Mill Bridge in Portland is slated to begin early in the new fiscal year.

As part of the project, a pedestrian bridge will first be constructed to restore foot traffic for the community while the main replacement bridge is built.

Dr. Holness also advised that work on the Troy Bridge in Trelawny is approximately 50 per cent complete.

Other key projects include the Spring Village Bridge in St. Catherine and Alley Bridge in Clarendon.

New bridges under development include Barham (Westmoreland), Southwood (Clarendon) and Guanaboa Vale (St. Catherine).