Commerce to anchor Black River’s post-hurricane redevelopment, says Seiveright

WESTERN BUREAU:

Delano Seiveright, state minister in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, says commerce, enterprise, and infrastructure expansion will be at the centre of Black River’s redevelopment and part of a broader strategy to transform Jamaica’s south-western corridor.

Speaking at the opening of Level 8 Dining and Gaming Lounge on North Street in Black River, Seiveright said that four months after the passage of Hurricane Melissa, the focus has shifted from immediate recovery to structured redevelopment, anchored by business confidence and climate-resilient rebuilding.

“We are committed to the redevelopment of Black River in a much better, sustainable, and smart way – climate-resilient,” he said in noting that the town would be fully restored.

Seiveright also acknowledged Black River’s pioneering role in Jamaica’s modern infrastructure in highlighting factors such as Waterloo House being the first residence in Jamaica to receive electricity in 1893, the town introducing telephone service in 1883, welcoming the island’s first motor car in 1903, and being among the first towns to benefit from piped water.

“The significance of this town is not lost on us,” said Seiveright in adding that the Government is determined to ensure that Black River’s next chapter reflects its pioneering past.

Highlighting post-hurricane achievements, Seiveright noted that approximately 98 per cent of Jamaica Public Service customers had electricity restored within three and a half months, which he said compared favourably with international recovery timelines following major storms.

Seiveright also gave his support to the rebuilding of dozens of shops and kiosks in the Border area, a key seafood and gastronomy destination in St Elizabeth.

“We’re not just about building buildings. We’re about building livelihoods,” he emphasised.

Looking ahead, Seiveright outlined several major infrastructure projects expected to stimulate private investment and enhance business activity in the region.

UPCOMING PROJECTS

Among the projects outlined are the US$2.9-million upgrade of the Treasure Beach Aerodrome to accommodate turboprop aircraft and small private jets; the South Coast Highway Extension from Williamsfield, in Manchester, to Hodges, in St Elizabeth, bypassing Junction, Southfield, and Black River; and the Montego Bay Perimeter Road and Long Hill Bypass, which are aimed at improving connectivity between Montego Bay and the southwest; and the proposed Negril International Airport, which he noted would be developed under a public-private partnership to accommodate Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft.

“These developments will enhance access, reduce travel time, and create the conditions for stronger commercial growth across the corridor,” he noted.

Seiveright commended businessman Richard Cole and the wider Cole family for their continued investment in Black River through Cole’s Seafood and More Limited, highlighting their contributions to Jamaica’s agri-fisheries sector, including exports of conch and lobster, which signalled renewed business confidence.

“Their investment sends a strong signal that commerce is back and that Black River is open for business,” he said.

According to Seiveright, the Government envisions expanded boutique tourism, eco-friendly developments, and increased commercial and light industrial activity across St Elizabeth and neighbouring Westmoreland, supporting institutions such as JAMPRO, the Companies Office of Jamaica, and the EXIM Bank, which will provide the ecosystem for entrepreneurs to thrive.

“Four months after one of the most severe hurricanes on record, we are not retreating,” said Seiveright. “We are restoring, redeveloping, and reimagining Black River into a stronger commercial centre for the southwest.”

albert.ferguson@gleanerjm.com