Consultations continuing on establishment of ORA; Mayors of St. Ann’s Bay and Port Maria express support for the initiative

Consultations are continuing on the establishment of the One Road Authority (ORA).

The ORA is aimed at strengthening coordination, improving accountability, and enhancing the management of Jamaica’s road network.

Works Minister Robert Morgan and Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie met with mayors last week about the Authority.

The Ministers engaged Municipal leadership on their experiences within the current system and their recommendations for improvement.

Mr. Morgan said the meeting was an important first step to bring greater alignment to how roads are managed.

He said their input is critical in shaping an approach that is practical, responsive, and grounded in what communities experience on the ground.

The proposed ORA is intended to streamline responsibilities shared among multiple entities, reduce duplication, and improve the delivery of road works and maintenance through clearer standards, stronger coordination, and more transparent performance tracking.

Discussions with Mayors focused on the realities faced at the Municipal level, including challenges related to coordination, prioritisation, resource constraints, and execution.

The feedback received will inform the development of a more cohesive and accountable framework.

Minister Morgan emphasised that the consultation process will continue with a wide cross-section of stakeholders to ensure the final structure reflects national priorities while responding to the needs of communities.

Further consultations will take place in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, the Mayors of St. Ann’s Bay and Port Maria have thrown their support behind the establishment of the ORA.

St. Ann’s Bay Mayor Michael Belnavis said the ORA will benefit the country significantly.

He said the recent meeting with the relevant Ministers provided needed clarity.

Port Maria’s Mayor, Fitzroy Wilson, says that although more consultations are needed, he has no objection to the ORA.