KINGSTON, Jamaica – The long-awaited reconstruction of the Troy Bridge, which serves as a critical link between Trelawny and Manchester, has received a further boost with an additional $100 million allocated in the 2025/26 national budget.
The bridge, which collapsed in August 2021 due to the heavy rains brought by Tropical Storm Grace, has been under reconstruction since the 2024/25 fiscal year. Initially, the government projected a total expenditure of $121 million for the project. However, with the latest allocation, the total estimated cost now stands at $221 million.
The National Works Agency (NWA), overseeing the project, has confirmed that significant progress has been made, with work currently 45 percent complete. Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Robert Morgan, indicated in a recent press briefing that efforts are on track to have the bridge completed by March 2026.
Designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, the new two-lane reinforced concrete bridge aims to enhance safety and improve accessibility for communities in northwest Manchester and southern Trelawny. Since the original bridge’s collapse, residents have relied on a temporary footbridge, which, while providing basic access, has been a challenge for commuters and transport operators.
With the additional funding secured, the upcoming fiscal year will focus on completing the remaining construction work, ensuring that the bridge meets modern safety and infrastructure standards. The government has reiterated its commitment to infrastructure development, emphasizing that projects like the Troy Bridge are vital for fostering economic growth and community resilience.
Residents eagerly anticipate the bridge’s completion, which is expected to restore seamless connectivity and ease transportation challenges in the region.
