Significant investment of $42m. in road upgrades solidifies Negril's influence within the Jamaican tourism sector.
The West End Road Rehabilitation Project, a $42 million infrastructure initiative, has been launched in Negril, Jamaica. Led by the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), the project aims to modernize key transport infrastructure, boosting tourism and community development in this important tourism zone.
Phase One, officially opened in July 2025, included comprehensive roadworks, modern drainage systems, de-bushing, and drain cleaning along a one-kilometre stretch of the iconic West End Road. This phase enhanced road safety, accessibility, and connectivity, directly supporting Negril’s role as a vital part of Jamaica’s tourism economy, which contributes nearly a third of the island’s US$4.3 billion tourism earnings.
Phase Two is expected to begin shortly after the first phase and will extend the rehabilitation further along the west end corridor. This phase promises to build on the momentum of Phase One by expanding improvements, further strengthening Negril’s tourism infrastructure, and fostering inclusive community development and economic growth.
Community leaders and local representatives have urged that after the road project’s initial phase, more resources should be allocated not only to continue extending the road improvements but also to develop critical access roads to other tourist attractions beyond the main beach area. This reflects the growing recognition that Negril has transformed from a “sleepy town” into a vibrant tourism hub needing comprehensive infrastructure support.
The overall impact on tourism and the community includes:
- Enhanced visitor experience and road safety, supporting increased tourism arrivals and spending.
- Improved community connectivity and access to economic opportunities.
- Support for sustainable growth, linking tourism infrastructure upgrades with broader community development goals.
- Boost to Negril’s standing as a key Jamaican tourism destination contributing significantly to national tourism revenue.
This project aligns with the Jamaican Government’s broader strategy to modernize infrastructure in high-impact tourism zones, affirming Negril’s critical role in the national tourism sector and economic future.
The West End Road Rehabilitation Project is more than just a road upgrade; government officials highlight it as a step toward stronger integration between communities, tourism development, and economic growth at large. The improvements to the West End Road are expected to encourage both locals and visitors to explore local attractions and businesses, unlocking economic opportunities for small entrepreneurs, artisans, and service providers.
In summary, the West End Road Rehabilitation Project’s Phase Two promises to build on the momentum of Phase One by expanding improvements, further strengthening Negril’s tourism infrastructure, and fostering inclusive community development and economic growth.
- The West End Road Rehabilitation Project is not merely an infrastructure upgrade; it's also expected to boost the finance of small entrepreneurs, artisans, and service providers in Negril by encouraging both locals and tourists to explore local attractions and businesses.
- The West End Road Rehabilitation Project, in its second phase, aims to extend the rehabilitation further along the west end corridor, further strengthening tourism development in Negril, which significantly contributes to Jamaica's economy.
- The improvements to the West End Road will support sustainable growth by linking tourism infrastructure upgrades with broader community development goals, enhancing the lifestyle of Negril's residents and bolstering its standing as a key Jamaican tourism destination.
