The Government is moving decisively to modernise Jamaica’s bridge network, with the Accelerated Bridge Programme now advancing towards implementation. The programme is set to deliver 55 bridges across the island, including seven emergency bridge structures to address urgent connectivity needs.

Making his contribution to the 2026/2027 Sectoral Debate in Parliament on Wednesday,(June 17, 2026), Minister with responsibility for Works, Hon. Robert Nesta Morgan, said the programme represents a major investment in national resilience, public safety and economic development, ensuring communities remain connected even in the face of increasingly severe weather events.

“The Accelerated Bridge Programme is about far more than replacing ageing structures. It is about strengthening the links that connect communities, support economic activity and keep Jamaicans moving safely across the country,” Minister Morgan said.

The programme, which has progressed from policy approval and technical development into the financing and execution phase, is designed to provide safe, durable and climate-resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding stronger floods, changing rainfall patterns and other extreme weather impacts.

The updated technical offer has been submitted, with negotiations and final approvals expected in the coming weeks.

Minister Morgan noted that Hurricane Melissa underscored the importance of resilient bridge infrastructure, as damaged crossings can quickly isolate communities and disrupt economic activity.

“Bridge resilience is road resilience. When a bridge fails, the value of the road network is compromised. This programme is therefore a national connectivity and resilience initiative that will strengthen Jamaica’s infrastructure for decades to come,” he said.

The Government has demonstrated its commitment to improving critical bridge infrastructure through the reopening of the Troy Bridge on June 5, 2026, effectively restoring a vital connection between Manchester and Trelawny, and the reopening of the Spring Village Bridge in St. Catherine on June 12, 2026.  Construction also continues on the Craigmill Bridge in Portland.