SPARK to Generate 13,000 Direct Jobs

• The Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to Our Road Network (SPARK) project is expected to generate 13,000 direct jobs during construction, while delivering an estimated US$1.3Bn in savings from vehicle maintenance, enhanced service accessibility, and strengthened community connectivity.
• Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation with responsibility for Works, Hon. Robert Morgan, made the disclosure during a statement to the House of Representatives on Tuesday (April 1).
• Work commenced in December 2024, following the award of a $45Bn contract, with three work orders issued covering 126 roads across 63 constituencies.
• “This initiative will improve economic efficiency, bolster Jamaica’s tourism appeal, and create employment opportunities,” Mr. Morgan said.
• The scope of work under SPARK includes the rehabilitation of main, local, and community roads, addressing pavements, select intersections, sidewalks, drainage, and retaining walls. Additionally, the project integrates water infrastructure upgrades and fibre-optic ducting to support future broadband connectivity.
• Mr. Morgan said a crucial element is the $5Bn investment in water pipeline upgrades, synchronised with roadworks to minimise disruptions.

(Source: JIS)