Roads in Trelawny to be Repaired Under JDIP

The Jamaica Development Infrastructure Programme (JDIP) was taken to Trelawny on September 9, with an official launch at the Albert Town Community Centre.
This programme is a major undertaking by the government of Jamaica to significantly improve the island’s road network, with a view to stimulating economic development and enhancing the quality of life of Jamaicans.
It is a five-year public works programme, to be funded by a loan from the People’s Republic of China. The money will be repaid though the gas tax.

Minister of Transport and Works, Hon. Michael Henry (right), consults with Member of Parliament for Southern Trelawny, Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert, during the launch of the Jamaica Development Infrastructure Programme (JDIP), in Trelawny, on September 9.

Approximately US$400 million (J$36 billion) has been made available through this partnership to effect works on the road network. The National Works Agency (NWA) will be the implementing agency, with China Harbour Engineering Company Limited being the contractors.
Addressing the launch, Minister of Transport and Works, Hon. Michael Henry explained that work in the parish should begin within the next 21 days, adding that the national programme at its peak should create over 6,000 jobs for Jamaicans.
“This programme is not just about roads, it is to re-energise and re-socialise the country,” the Minister said. He argued that the programme should spur economic development and growth.
Mr. Henry pointed out that several local sub-contractors will be employed in the implementation of the programme.
Meanwhile, representative from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited, Liu Jialin gave a commitment that the work his company will be doing in Jamaica will be of a high standard.
“For China Harbour, we are proud to be chosen. We see this as a medium through which Chinese people can partner with Jamaicans to achieve common goals, such as community development and economic welfare,” he said.