Work Expected to Begin This Quarter Under SPARK Programme

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has announced that work is expected to begin within this quarter under the $45-billion Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) Programme.

He said that in the coming days, the Government will engage a public relations firm to launch the public awareness campaign for SPARK.

Dr. Holness noted that citizens will be informed about which roads have been selected for improvement and other key project details, helping to manage public expectations.

“As we prepare to enter the construction phase of the SPARK project, we are committed to carrying out the work with efficiency and professionalism, ensuring minimal disruptions to the daily lives of our citizens. The SPARK project is a vital part of our national development strategy, and I am confident that its successful execution will bring about lasting benefits to our people,” he said, noting that every constituency will benefit.

Prime Minister Holness made the announcement in the House of Representatives on October 8, where he provided an update on the Government’s flagship infrastructure initiative – the SPARK programme.

The Government undertook a series of islandwide community consultations on the road improvement initiative, which was announced by the Prime Minister. The consultations consisted of community members and technocrats.

“I know that Jamaicans are eager to know if their road will be selected for improvement under the SPARK programme. Some may be disappointed if their communities are not included in this phase of SPARK. However, we have worked hard to make the project as fair and equitable as possible. SPARK has been the most consultative road improvement initiative in the nation’s history,” Mr. Holness pointed out.

He said the Government remains fully committed to ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget and to the highest standards of quality.

“The road ahead will require continued focus and collaboration between all stakeholders, and I look forward to updating this House as we continue to make progress on this critical national project, which is expected to start in this quarter,” he said.

He thanked the Jamaican people for their patience and understanding, “as we work to improve infrastructure that supports their daily lives”.

“The SPARK project is not just about upgrading roads; it’s about transforming the lives of people. Better roads mean better travel, reduced transportation costs and improved access to jobs, education and health,” the Prime Minister said.

“It means that farmers in rural communities will be able to get their produce to market more efficiently. It means that businesses can thrive because goods and services can move more freely across the island, and importantly; It means that we are laying the groundwork for a digitally connected Jamaica with the integration of fibre optics in our road infrastructure. We are not just building roads; we are building a better future for Jamaica… . We are sparking prosperity for Jamaica,” he added.

The vital infrastructure upgrades will be fully funded by the Government, given the country’s economic improvements.

The SPARK programme represents one of the largest investments in Jamaica’s road and water infrastructure in recent history, and its successful execution is critical to the nation’s growth and development.

“By improving access to essential services and boosting productivity, it will contribute to better economic and social outcomes and enhance the quality of life of our citizens. [It] was first introduced in the fiscal year 2023/2024 as a $40-billion road improvement project. Since then, it has grown to include an additional $5 billion for water line improvements,” Dr. Holness said.

He noted that the project will also instal fibre-optic ducts to support future broadband connectivity, which aligns with the Government’s digital transformation strategy.

“This infrastructure will connect public institutions, improve the delivery of shared services and eventually enable e- government services for the Jamaican people,” the Prime Minister said.

The SPARK Programme is divided into two major components. A sum of $20 billion will be spent in Part A of the initiative.

Dr. Holness added that the work will be coordinated with the National Water Commission to prevent the need for road excavation in the future, improve cost efficiency and reduce duplications in public works.

“The SPARK Programme is also a smart programme. When we spend this $20 billion in the first phase and the other $20 billion in the second phase, plus the $5 billion for water pipes; when we lay down those ‘carpets’, there must be no reason to take them up back,” he said.