Old Harbour Bay to Get Major Infrastructure Overhaul: $500M Ro...

Old Harbour Bay to Get Major Infrastructure Overhaul: $500M Road and Drainage Project Begins in 2026

Residents and business owners in Old Harbour, St. Catherine, are celebrating a landmark announcement from the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation. A comprehensive community infrastructure project, valued at approximately J$500 million, is scheduled to start in the first quarter of 2026. The initiative aims to address long-standing issues with flooding, poor road conditions, and inadequate drainage in several key districts, including Old Harbour Bay, Freetown, and Bushy Park.

This project, described by officials as one of the largest single investments in the parish’s history, signals a major shift for the rapidly growing town, which has seen a surge in residential and commercial development over the past decade.

The Scope of the Project

The infrastructure upgrade will cover over 8 kilometres of road network, with a primary focus on drainage and flood mitigation. According to documents obtained by HowJamaica.com, the work includes:

• Reconstruction of 5.2 km of primary roads with reinforced concrete and asphalt
• Installation of over 3 km of new drainage channels and culverts
• Upgrading of water mains to reduce loss and improve pressure
• Construction of sidewalks and pedestrian crossings in high-traffic areas
• Installation of solar-powered street lighting in the Old Harbour Bay fishing village

The project is part of the Government’s Shared Prosperity Through Infrastructure Programme, which targets underserved communities across Jamaica. Local Member of Parliament, Dr. Norman Dunn, confirmed that funding has been allocated in the 2025/2026 national budget, with the National Works Agency (NWA) overseeing setup.

“This is not just about roads; it’s about dignity and opportunity. For years, Old Harbour Bay has been neglected. When it rains, families can’t get to school or work. This project will change that,” Dr. Dunn said at a town hall meeting on December 10, 2025.

Why Old Harbour? A Town at a Crossroads

Old Harbour, once a quiet fishing and farming community, has evolved into a bustling commercial hub. Its proximity to Kingston (about 45 minutes by car) and the expanding Highway 2000 corridor have made it a prime location for new housing developments, shopping centres, and industrial parks. The population has swelled to over 30,000, putting immense pressure on ageing infrastructure.

Local business owner Marcia Thompson, who runs a hardware store on Main Street, told HowJamaica.com that flooding has cost her thousands in lost inventory over the years. “Every time there’s a heavy rain, the water comes up to my shop door. I’ve lost stock, and customers can’t park. This project gives me hope that things will finally improve,” she said.

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Timeline and Phasing

The Old Harbour infrastructure project will be executed in three phases over 18 months:

• Phase 1 (January – June 2026): Drainage works and water main upgrades in Old Harbour Bay and Freetown. Traffic disruptions expected on Harbour Road and Church Lane.
• Phase 2 (July – October 2026): Road reconstruction and sidewalk installation on Main Street and Bushy Park Road. Detours will be in place.
• Phase 3 (November 2026 – June 2027): Final asphalt paving, street lighting, and landscaping. Community clean-up and handover ceremony planned.

The NWA has pledged to minimise disruption by working primarily during off-peak hours and maintaining access to emergency services at all times.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Beyond the immediate benefits of improved roads and drainage, the project is expected to create over 200 direct jobs for local labourers, engineers, and equipment operators. The Government has mandated that at least 30% of contracts be awarded to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the Old Harbour area.

“This is a win-win. We fix the roads, and we put money in the pockets of our own people,” said project manager Michael Williams of the NWA. “We’re also training young people in construction and project management, so they can take those skills elsewhere.”

Local vendors and farmers are also optimistic. The improved road access is expected to reduce transportation costs and spoilage for agricultural produce, while better drainage will protect homes and businesses from flood damage. Real estate agents have already reported increased interest in properties along the project corridors.

Community Voices: Mixed Emotions, High Hopes

While most residents are enthusiastic, some have expressed concerns about potential delays and cost overruns. “We’ve heard promises before. I’ll believe it when I see the first truck of asphalt,” said retired fisherman Carlton Brown, a lifelong resident of Old Harbour Bay.

Others worry about temporary displacement during construction. The NWA has assured that no homes will be demolished, but some businesses may need to adjust their hours. A community liaison committee has been formed to address grievances in real time.

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Looking Ahead: A Model for Other Communities?

The Old Harbour project is being closely watched by other parishes, including St. Mary and Clarendon, which have similar infrastructure challenges. If successful, it could serve as a blueprint for future public-private partnerships in community development.

“We’re not just fixing potholes; we’re building resilience,” said Minister of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Hon. Matthew Samuda, during a site visit in November 2025. “Climate change means more extreme weather. This project will ensure that Old Harbour can withstand the next storm and keep its people safe.”

As Old Harbour prepares for this historic transformation, residents are cautiously optimistic. The next few years will determine whether this investment truly delivers on its promise of a safer, more prosperous community. For now, the town is bracing for the sound of jackhammers—and the hope that follows.

This article was reported by HowJamaica.com’s local affairs desk. For more updates on infrastructure projects across Jamaica, visit HowJamaica.com and follow us on social media.

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