Government to Redesign Key Commercial Corridors to Support Urban Growth
Prime Minister Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness says the Government is taking decisive steps to properly plan and build out Jamaica’s major roadways to accommodate high commerce and heavy traffic, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas such as Drax Hall, St. Ann.
Speaking on Friday (October 10) at the groundbreaking ceremony for the BOOT 2 Commercial Complex, Prime Minister Holness underscored the importance of future-proofing infrastructure to match the pace of development and urban expansion.
“The roadway in its present form cannot serve the new and emerging needs of this urbanized and commercial district that is emerging. We have to acknowledge and incorporate the developments that already exist and plan for those to come but do it in a way that is future-proof,” said Prime Minister Holness.
The Prime Minister explained that the Drax Hall corridor, originally built to function as a highway, has evolved into a bustling urban space due to the rapid increase in housing, hotels, and commercial developments. With traffic volumes now exceeding twice the intended capacity, Dr. Holness noted that a new design approach is necessary.
“We can’t have a road that is playing two roles because a highway dissecting an urbanized commercial area will eventually function more as a local road than a highway. We will build more of what could be termed as a boulevard designed to support both commercial activity and smooth traffic flow,” he stated.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Holness added that the redesign will focus on creating safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable urban corridors that promote economic activity and improve quality of life.
Dr. Holness also commended the visionary leadership of Mr. Boothe, describing him as part of a “new vanguard of Jamaican investors” who are taking advantage of the stable economic environment created by the Government.
“There is a new class of entrepreneurs emerging in Jamaica who are driving the country’s growth. They are taking risks, creating opportunities, and generating wealth not just for themselves but for the hundreds they employ and the thousands who benefit from their services,” the Prime Minister said.
Prime Minister Holness says the Government will continue to integrate proper planning, infrastructure development, and private investment to ensure Jamaica’s growth is sustainable, orderly, and inclusive.