Why has the Jamaican government betrayed their inner communities by neglecting their roads for so long?

Mervin Ellis, MS, LMFT, AAMFT
Mar 30, 2025
4 min read

Portview Ave, Marlie Mount, Old Harbour St. Catherine Jamaica Picture Taken March 26th, 2025.

The neglect of inner community roads in Jamaica has deep roots. This issue is not just about physical deterioration but also reflects how the government has overlooked the needs of its own citizens, particularly those living in less urbanized areas. Roads are essential for connecting communities to vital resources like healthcare, education, and jobs. Without them, whole communities face isolation and hardship. Understanding the consequences of this neglect can illuminate why addressing it is crucial—both for individual prosperity and national development.

Portview Ave, Marlie Mount, Old Harbour St. Catherine Jamaica Picture Taken March 26th, 2025.

Historical Context

Since gaining independence in 1962, Jamaica has confronted several challenges, including periods of political instability and economic struggles. Unfortunately, this has often led to a focus on visible urban projects that promise quick returns. Inner communities—home to many of Jamaica's most vulnerable populations—have seen little investment.

Statistics show that more than 80% of rural roads are in disrepair, making it difficult for residents to travel. People living there often have to navigate potholes and crumbling surfaces, leading to higher vehicle maintenance costs and delayed access to essential services.

The Impacts of Neglect

The effects of poorly maintained roads ripple through various facets of life in inner communities.

Education: Many students face long commutes to schools in urban areas. Data shows that attendance rates can drop by as much as 25% in areas with severely deteriorated roads. The lengthy and difficult journeys discourage many students from attending school regularly.
Healthcare: Residents often cannot access medical assistance during emergencies due to impassable roads. Research indicates that response times for emergency medical services can increase by 40 minutes in these areas, making timely care difficult when seconds can mean life or death.
Economic Opportunities: The local economy suffers as businesses struggle to deliver goods and services. Small vendors frequently increase prices due to higher transport costs, making it harder for them to compete. A study found that logistics costs can account for up to 30% of a trader's expenses in rural areas, stifling their growth.

The Government's Priorities

A closer look at government spending reveals a stark disparity. Large infrastructure projects like highways and tourist facilities dominate investment strategies, while rural road repair is often sidelined. This prioritization creates a sense of abandonment among inner community residents, who feel their needs are being ignored.

While urban development and tourism play significant roles in Jamaica's economy, neglecting rural infrastructure undermines the interests of those who contribute to the nation’s agriculture and small businesses.

Community Voices

Residents of inner communities express their frustration over being overlooked. Many have engaged in grassroots activism—organizing clean-up initiatives and community meetings to voice their concerns. However, their efforts often go unheard.

Prominent community leaders argue that local voices must be part of planning discussions. For a significant change in infrastructure to happen, there needs to be a collaborative approach that incorporates community input, ensuring the solutions are relevant and effective.

The Role of Local Governance

Local government plays a vital role in improving road conditions in inner communities. However, many local authorities struggle with limited funding and a lack of political will. Often, funds are used for temporary fixes instead of long-term solutions.

By reallocating budgets to focus on road repairs and working with community-driven projects, local governments can bring much-needed improvements. Initiatives that engage local stakeholders can yield innovative strategies tailored to specific community needs.

Portview Ave, Marlie Mount, Old Harbour St. Catherine Jamaica Picture Taken March 26th, 2025.

Paths to Improvement

Improving the road conditions in Jamaica’s inner communities requires a comprehensive strategy.

Increased Funding: The government must allocate more financial resources for rural road repairs. Ensuring sustainable budgets can lead to effective maintenance and improvements.
Community Engagement: Direct conversations with residents can help identify their most pressing needs. When people feel heard, it can lead to solutions that better serve the community.
Public-Private Partnerships: Partnering with businesses can enhance infrastructure projects. Private sector investment often brings additional resources to the table, benefiting everyone.
Innovative Solutions: Utilizing local materials creates jobs and reduces costs. Additionally, technology can advance road maintenance practices, offering new methods for keeping roads in good condition.

The Importance of Accountability

Going forward, accountability is key. Residents must hold their representatives answerable for the state of their communities. Advocacy for infrastructure rights can drive government action.

Grassroots organizations play a crucial role in this, as they amplify local voices, bringing attention to the need for road improvements. Investigative media can also help, shedding light on the ongoing neglect and calling for necessary changes.

Time for Action

The issue of road neglect in Jamaican inner communities is complex but not insurmountable. The government must recognize the equal importance of all communities and take decisive action to address these long-standing issues. By investing in infrastructure, Jamaica can uplift its residents, ensuring everyone has access to well-maintained roads that connect them to crucial opportunities.