Implementation of May Pen to Williamsfield toll now set for August 17

The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) has announced the Government is pushing back implementation of the toll on the May Pen to Williamsfield leg of Highway 2000, to give reprieve to motorists in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.

In March, Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced an extension of the toll-free period to July 1, however, the OPM says this is being further pushed back to August 17.

Holness says the decision has been made to prioritise recovery and relief efforts in the affected areas and the delay will allow for critical resources and attention to be directed towards aiding the communities in the southern parishes hardest hit by the hurricane.

"We recognise the immense challenges faced by the residents in the wake of Hurricane Beryl. Our priority is to support the ongoing recovery efforts and to provide some relief to those affected by delaying the implementation of the new toll," says Holness.

Holness says the postponement also aims to facilitate smoother transitions for commuters and businesses that rely on this key infrastructure.

He says the National Road Operating and Construction Company, NROCC, will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed.

About a week ago, TransJamaican Highway announced it had reached an agreement with the NROCC to operate the road and was aiming for a mid-August date for the commencement of the toll.

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