Prime Minister Intervenes in Portmore Toll Road Issue

Prime Minister P.J. Patterson is to meet with a government team to examine the issue of the proposed toll road in Portmore, and to see how the situation can be resolved.
In recent months, several persons in the Portmore community have voiced concerns about the proposed toll road (part of Highway 2000), and the alternative route of the Mandela Highway.
Speaking at yesterday’s (March 7) post Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House, Information Minister, Senator Burchell Whiteman said there was a “high level of confidence” that the issue would be resolved and the meeting was an important part of the whole process.
Minister Whiteman said the administration remained conscious of the need to consult with the affected persons, adding that “consultation in a certain environment and on a certain basis will be the order of the day”.
He emphasized that the meeting would be geared towards resolution and not further problems and speculation, and would examine specific approaches and options.
The decision follows the breakdown of a consultative meeting held at the Portmore Heart Academy last week to further discuss the proposed toll road, which was attended by Transport and Works Minister, Robert Pickersgill and several government representatives.
The principal objectives of Highway 2000 are to improve Jamaica’s infrastructure and to offer economic opportunities for growth and job creation.
This development is being undertaken by the Government in partnership with the National Road Operating and Constructing Company Limited (NROCC), which is a state-owned company; TransJamaican Highway Limited (TJH), the developer; Bouygues Travaux Publics Jamaica Branch, the contractor; and Jamaica Infrastructure Operator (JIO), which is responsible for toll collection, highway safety and routine maintenance.