Jamaica Invests Over $2.63 Billion in New Buses to Boost Public Transport System

The government plans to invest over $2.63 billion in the purchase of 100 new buses to enhance the fleet of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC). Robert Morgan, the Minister without Portfolio in the Office of the Prime Minister, responsible for information, announced during a post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House on Wednesday that the Cabinet has authorized a US$18,900,000 contract with Von’s Motor and Company Limited for the provision and delivery of compressed natural gas (CNG) buses.

Earlier this year, the government integrated six new buses from an international supplier into the public transport system, with two additional buses expected in May. These upcoming buses will be specifically equipped to accommodate the disabled community. “Reflecting on the 50 buses received last July—45 diesel and five electric, valued at $1 billion—and the 20 CNG buses, valued at $650 million, our total investment in public transport returns $1.65 billion to the Jamaican people, demonstrating our commitment to fiscal responsibility,” commented Transport Minister Daryl Vaz.

Discussing the new CNG buses mentioned at the press briefing, Vaz confirmed that these buses are scheduled to arrive before the start of the 2024-25 school year in September. “I can confirm that the 100 buses I committed to are now in production, with deposits made. They will be in production from April 5 to May 10, which means they will leave China by the end of May and arrive here by the end of June for July,” Vaz said.

Operating over 70 routes in Kingston, Portmore, and Spanish Town, the JUTC’s addition of these new buses along with the potential creation of a specialized school bus system, marks significant progress in Jamaica’s efforts to upgrade its public transport infrastructure. The government’s proactive stance and dedication to delivering dependable transport solutions promise a more effective and convenient commute for both students and the general population as the new academic year approaches.