Jamaica’s Mega Projects 2024

Step into the future with Jamaica’s Remarkable Infrastructure Revolution!

The Island of Jamaica is currently experiencing an extraordinary transformative phase with a surge of diverse infrastructure and development projects, reflecting the nation’s unwavering dedication to progress and economic advancement. 

These multifaceted endeavors span various sectors, demonstrating Jamaica’s holistic approach to modernization and resilience. From ambitious transportation upgrades and the embrace of sustainable energy solutions and the establishment of a Cyber City to groundbreaking tourism expansions and pivotal healthcare and education initiatives, each project contributes significantly to the nation’s comprehensive development strategy. 

The focus on sustainable solutions and enhancing key sectors like transportation, tourism, and energy showcases Jamaica’s commitment to long-term prosperity.

Within this dynamic context, we are poised to explore in-depth, ten of the major ongoing initiatives that stand as pillars shaping the future trajectory of the island. As we embark on this exploration, we’ll unravel the intricacies of these transformative endeavors that collectively underscore Jamaica’s dedication to fostering a modern, resilient, and prosperous society. 

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#10 Southern Coastal Highway Improvement Project

The first megaproject on our list is touted as the country’s largest integrated road infrastructure project. The Southern Coastal Highway Improvement Project is a US $11.5 billion road development project under the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation with co-funding from the China Exim Bank. 

As the name suggests, the project involves the construction and improvement of the country’s Southern Highway, between May Pen and Port Antonio. The 165-kilometre stretch of road is now in its 2nd phase and is scheduled to finish in the first quarter of 2025. When completed, the new passageway will have a drastically improved capacity and will be much safer and more efficient for motorists to traverse.

#9 Jamaica Railway Rehabilitation Project

Next up on our list, we have a project that will dramatically change the landscape of the country. We are talking about none other than the Jamaica Railway Rehabilitation Project. The project aims to transform a section of the country’s derelict rail tracks, into a tourist attraction and potentially expand into a transportation network.

The project has been on the country’s development plans for decades since services stopped in 1992. Develop is to involve Jamaica’s University of Technology (Utech) as well as the country’s Ministry of Transport and Mining with plans to modernize the Kingston railway station and open a three-and-a-half mile route through the city. 

#8 A New National Stadium 

Moving on to number 8, we have a project essential for any country, and that is a new National Stadium. The National Stadium in St Andrew, Jamaica, is set to undergo a comprehensive redevelopment, with an estimated investment of US$76 million under the Jamaica 60 Legacy Programme. 

The initiative aims to modernize the 60-year-old structure to include state-of-the-art facilities, increased seating capacity to 37,000, and the replacement of the outdated 500-meter cycle track with a modern 250-meter velodrome. The upgrade also addresses international standards, incorporating an anti-doping facility and improving media, restrooms, and other facilities. The phased redevelopment will allow the stadium to continue hosting events during the construction period, contributing to the ongoing evolution of Jamaica’s infrastructure.

#7 Kingston 2 Developments

Jamaica like many parts of the United States and the United Kingdom is undergoing housing expansions with many construction projects. Our next project seeks to capitalize on this trend with the development of 119 housing units in Bournemouth Gardens. The building called Kingston 2, will be 109,318 square feet on a 1.62-acre lot located facing the coastline of Kingston Harbour.

Once completed, it will offer amenities in the form of public lounges on the ground floor, and first floor and the sky lounge on the ninth floor, complete with a dipping pool, outdoor kitchen, and a gym. 

On the roof deck, there will also be a running track that supports healthy lifestyles within the confines of the development.  The project broke ground in December of last year with Prime Minister Andrew Holness MP Phillip Paulwell and stakeholders from Sherbourne Limited. Construction is expected to improve the value of neighboring communities and revitalize the area. 

#6 Montego Bay Cruise Port Expansion 

At the number 6 slot, we have the Montego Bay Cruise Port expansion, a multiphase project aimed to greatly increase the capacity and efficiency of the port. About 40% of Montego Bay’s cargo terminal will be converted to cruise operations and will create capacity for some 14,000 sq. ft. of additional space and two check-in desks.

The plan also includes building new expansive berthing facilities to accommodate Ultra Voyager Class vessels, as well as the construction of a new passenger terminal building which will enable the transfer of up to 3,500 passengers within two hours. While cruise ships began docking last year, final upgrades are scheduled to be completed this year, inclusive of high-end shops, fine-dining restaurants, and other entertainment options.

#5 Racquet Club Condominiums and Spa

Next up on the list, we have the reconstruction of one of the most prolific hotels in Montego Bay, and that is the Raquect Club Condominiums and Spa. The once famous Racquet Club Ηotel has been demolished to make way for the construction of an 8-storey luxury condominium complex. 

The club is expected to serve as both a tourist destination and a center of racquet sports.  There will be a social wellness club featuring six courts for tennis and pickleball, a spa, two gyms, and a café, in addition to a lounge and a swimming pool.

The original Racquet Club was a playground for international celebrities such as renowned movie stars Charlton Heston, Kirk Douglas, and the former “queen of Hollywood” Elizabeth Taylor, as well as tennis greats Don Budge, Arthur Ashe, and others. 

The New Racquet Club Condominiums and Spa is seen as a rebirth of the Racquet Club and is expected to recapture the history of the club while catering to that new breed of world traveler.

#4 North Coast Highway Improvement Project 

Next stop on our list, we highlight another major road development project taking place, but this time in the north of the Island. The North Coast Highway Development Project is a government initiative aimed at enhancing the entire north coast road from Negril to Port Antonio. 

The project involves reconstructing the existing road, flattening curves, repairing old bridges, and constructing new roads and drainage systems. 

Spanning approximately 225 kilometers, the development is divided into three segments: Negril to Montego Bay, Montego Bay to Ocho Rios, and Ocho Rios to Port Antonio. 

Driven by the goal of fostering economic growth and tourism while improving safety and accessibility, special care is also being taken to ensure proper environmental and archaeological measures are in place, with the Jamaica National Heritage Trust’s Archaeology Division.

The North Coast Highway Improvement Project is part of an overall $25 million road improvement project to modernize 2,000 roads across the island, and according to the Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Dr. the Hon. Nigel Clarke, construction is to start in the 2023/2024 fiscal year.

#3 Renewable Energy Transformation 

Breaking into the top three now, we have a project that is the beginning of an energy transformation in the country, and that is a 300-megawatt renewable energy project. Power utility company Jamaica Public Service has begun the planning phase of a combined 300-megawatt renewable energy projects. 

The transformation is for a 115-megawatt utility-scale solar plant, 172 megawatts of battery storage at multiple sites, and a 12-megawatt onshore wind farm. The plan is to have all these projects commercially operational in 2026 into 2027, in time for the country’s renewable energy target of 50% by 2030. 

The project is currently at the tendering stage for engineering, procurement, and construction, with sites already selected. Under the current deadline, EOIs are due by December 22 and information is available here and in the Documents box in the top right-hand corner of the screen.

This project follows another 100-megawatt renewable energy plant proposed in May 2023, where Jamaica’s Generation Procurement Entity issued a call for expressions of interest to build, own, and operate a plant on behalf of the entity. So as you can see, a major renewable energy transformation is on the horizon.

#2 Cyber City of Excellence 

Coming in at the number two slot, we have the future of the country, Jamaica’s Cyber City. The Jamaica Cyber City is a massive initiative to construct a state-of-the-art hub for information companies and telecommunication companies in the heart of Jamaica. This cutting-edge city would provide top-of-the-line facilities such as high-speed internet communications, reliable power supply, and a highly educated workforce in technology. 

But beyond this, the city is expected to have advanced security measures tailored to cater to the needs of these enterprises, to draw companies from around the world and generate hundreds of job opportunities. 

In a remarkable step towards progress, United States Vice President Kamala Harris extended official congratulations to Prime Minister Andrew Holness and conveyed the US’s commitment to supporting Jamaica by announcing a US$2 million contribution to the establishment of the Cyber Centre of Excellence benefiting the wider Caribbean region. 

Prime Minister Holness welcomed the support, expressing gratitude for the continued investment and strong ties between Jamaica and the US. The leaders discussed the significance of increased investment in cybersecurity, highlighting its priority for the Jamaican government. 

#1 Jamaican Shipyard

Jamaica has an ambition to establish itself as a global logistics hub and our final project is a significant boost to that goal. Coming in at the number 1 slot, Jamaica is poised to have a multimillion-dollar shipyard to be built in Kingston Harbour. 

Spearheaded by German Ship Repair Jamaica (GSRJ) the initiative involves a US $37 million investment to enhance the island’s competitiveness in the maritime sector. The first phase includes a floating dry dock named JAM-DOCK 1, allowing for the servicing of commercial vessels up to 20,000 tonnes and 215 meters in length, and will provide services such as the overhaul and repair of main and auxiliary engines, propellers, ship structures, painting of the hull and much more. 

The project is expected to create additional employment and training opportunities for around 100 workers, with Jamaicans already being trained at the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) and HEART/NSTA Trust to fill roles that will become available. Prime Minister Andrew Holness emphasized that such investments would attract more vessels to Jamaica, closing existing gaps and fostering regional maritime activity.

Jamaica’s recent emphasis on major infrastructure and development projects underscores its commitment to economic growth and modernization. Initiatives like the National Stadium redevelopment, the Southern Coastal Highway Project, and the establishment of a shipyard demonstrate a strategic push toward global competitiveness and sustainability. 

These projects address essential needs in transportation, sports facilities, and logistics, showcasing Jamaica as a forward-thinking and dynamic player on the international stage. The ongoing commitment to innovation and collaboration positions Jamaica for a promising future of enhanced quality of life and economic prosperity. We look forward to when these projects are completed, and assessing the impact they have on the trajectory of the country. 

What do you think about Jamaica’s ambitious infrastructure projects? 

Which project resonates with you the most, and why? 

We value your input! What topics would you like us to cover on our channel next? Are there specific developments in other Caribbean islands you’re interested in learning more about? 

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Caribbean Focus by Jirie