Dear Editor,

The majority of roads in Jamaica have been in a deplorable condition for an unacceptably long period. Notwithstanding, it is doubtful that citizens will get relief quickly because Prime Minister Andrew Holness requested that political representatives consult with their communities prior to commencement of rehabilitation through the $40-billion Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) programme.

Such an entreaty by the prime minister is puzzling, considering the urgent attention that roads require. Rehabilitation is overdue and should not be delayed by protracted discussions while trying to reach a consensus about the order in which repairs should be done.

In my view, it is unnecessary for residents to be involved in the decision-making process. The National Works Agency (NWA) should do assessments and then prioritise, with main and heavily trafficked roads given highest priority. For some programmes the proposals or ideas of the community may be useful, but road projects should be exempted. Furthermore, this will guard against those in the communities who are “mighty and influential” and thus may want to dictate the order of priority for the overhauling.

Having more participation will not necessarily lead to an efficient or desired outcome. So it is better to accelerate the implementation of the programme by engaging the NWA which will get input from Members of Parliament and councillors.

The Spark programme was announced during the 2023-2024 budget presentation. It is full time for it to spark.

Peter A P Gordon

digmeup@yahoo.com