Border Rest Stop and Eatery Back in Business

The Border Rest Stop and Eatery in St. Elizabeth is back in business after it was officially reopened recently, following the devastation by Hurricane Melissa on October 28 last year.

Its restoration, led by the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, is being heralded as a turning point for the island’s southern coast, where tourism fortunes have long turned on the vigour of local entrepreneurs, beachfront scenery, and the convenience of a good meal on the road.

The ceremony to inaugurate the comeback of Border was led by Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, who praised the speed and scope of the work.

He also credited Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Senator the Hon. Aubyn Hill, and his team for the round-the-clock effort that restored not only a landmark but a cluster of shops and kiosks that now line the once-damaged stretch.

“With parking, restrooms facilities and some seating, I can envision locals from all over taking that drive to Border,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the area “could soon be buzzing again with both locals and tourists.”

Minister Hill, for his part, has positioned Border as a flagship project in post-disaster recovery, emphasising speed, quality and community ownership.

“Border’s potential to regain and improve its status as one of the premier must-see attractions in St. Elizabeth, and by extension Jamaica, rests on the resilience of the vendors and their willingness to elevate what currently exists at the facility,” Minister Hill said.

“We have been working with them and will continue to work with them,” he continued, underscoring ongoing collaboration that goes beyond bricks and mortar.

The Minister also framed Border as a scalable model (template) for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Jamaica in the post-Melissa era, adding that Border demonstrates how a community-led initiative can be scaled into a regional economic spark, pointing to the upgraded facilities as proof of concept for similar ventures.

He reiterated that the restoration has been designed to balance heritage with modern amenities, a balance that is essential for sustainable tourism growth.

Minister Hill also highlighted the seamless coordination between government and vendors as a blueprint for future recovery efforts.

“We welcome the private and public-sector partnership which can only work to the benefit of our local economy,” he added, stressing a persistent, hands-on approach that keeps momentum going.

Minister Hill’s remarks were echoed by partners and other stakeholders in the tourism ecosystem, reinforcing the message that Border is more than a destination, but also a catalyst for broader regional revival.

Resident of Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth and villa owner, Ernie Muirhead, spoke of Border’s wider significance to the area’s tourism ecosystem.

“Border is a symbol of resilience for our community,” Mr. Muirhead said.

“When you see the place being rebuilt so swiftly, it sends a message that Jamaica’s tourism – our people and our places – will endure,” he continued.

He emphasised how Border’s reopening could amplify the draw of Treasure Beach itself, known for its tides, art, and hospitality, by offering a ready-made stopover that results in longer stays and repeat visits.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, Marc Melville, highlighted Border’s role as a gateway for adventure and culture along the south coast.

“Having Border back up and running is a major pull factor for south coast tourism,” Mr. Melville noted.

He envisions a more integrated itinerary where travellers can begin or end a day with a satisfying, authentic meal and a quick shopping experience before resuming their journey along Jamaica’s coast, which is rich with attractions from nature trails to cultural performances.

Local shop owner, Sharon Brown, welcomed the Government’s intervention with relief.

“The restoration effort means a lot to us as small business operators. The Government’s assistance has helped the site reopen with dignity, safety, and a renewed sense of possibility,” she said.

Ms. Brown, who operates a food stall at Border, spoke of improved infrastructure that promises steady customer flow and a more welcoming environment for vendors and visitors alike.