Prime Minister Holness Declares New Troy Bridge a Symbol of Revitalization and Economic Independence

Prime Minister Holness Declares New Troy Bridge a Symbol of Revitalization and Economic Independence

"This new bridge will be the symbol of the new Jamaica where the government is investing in renewing, rebuilding, revitalizing, repairing and reinstating our aged infrastructure."

-Prime Minister Holness
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Prime Minister Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness says 0the government is making an intentional and strategic investment in the country's infrastructure to herald a new Jamaica.

Speaking last Friday, November 8, 2024, at the construction site of the new Troy Bridge in South Trelawny, Prime Minister Holness said the bridge will be a powerful symbol of the commitment of the government to infrastructure renewal, development and economic independence.

The $230 million project, financed through the national budget without the use of external loans, is expected to be completed by June 2025, bringing vital improvements in accessibility and economic opportunity to the Troy community and neighboring areas.

The Prime Minister said it is significant that the government is funding infrastructure projects through sustainable, self-generated revenue, reflecting his administration's broader goals for economic resilience. "As it relates to aging infrastructure this new bridge will be the symbol of the new Jamaica where the government is investing in renewing, rebuilding, revitalizing, repairing and reinstating our aged infrastructure. What we have committed to do is to ensure that our economy is performing at a level where your tax revenues can be used to finance the rebuilding of the aging infrastructure rather than borrowing," said Prime Minister Holness.

The Prime Minister continued: "This bridge that we are putting up is an example of the government investing in replacing aging infrastructure, and not one cent of the $230 million is from borrowing. If this had happened ten years ago, it is highly likely that 60% of what would have been spent here would have come from some sort of borrowing. That's a major change."

Prime Minister Holness also acknowledged that Jamaica's aging infrastructure presents challenges that require significant investment. He highlighted that achieving infrastructural renewal is only possible with a strong economy, which reduces reliance on debt and enables the government to dedicate national resources to meaningful projects like the Troy Bridge. This approach, he explained, would ultimately allow Jamaica to address issues like deteriorating roads, bridges, and other essential infrastructure more effectively.

In the meantime, the Prime Minister called for continued public support and patience, as the government remains committed to making impactful changes. "It will take some time; it is not going to be snap of the fingers, but the results are going to be seen as the people of Troy will now see their bridge replaced. Thank you for your patience and understanding, let's keep the commitment to rebuild our infrastructure," stated Prime Minister Holness.

Once completed, the new bridge will enhance connectivity, convenience, and safety for the people of Troy, at the border of Manchester and Trelawny, providing the region with new economic opportunities and a vital connection for community growth. This project exemplifies the government's resolve to build a stronger, more self-sufficient Jamaica where the needs of the people are met by reinvestment in the country's own resources.