Expert calls for gov't to invest more in urban renewal

 

Urban planning expert Dr. Carol Archer is calling for the Holness administration to invest more in urban renewal, warning that under spending on infrastructure could threaten Jamaica's economic growth - a concern also raised by the Independent Fiscal Commission. 

 

Speaking Friday on the Morning Agenda on Power 106, Dr. Archer said urban areas and cities are the engine of economic growth. 

 

She explained that the poor infrastructure, drainage and road network have contributed to urban decline. 

 

"What we need then is a comprehensive plan to say, in our urban areas, these are the things that we need to do because the data showing that's what is needed. Then you need to commit the resources, because...the urban areas, the cities, those are engines of economic growth. So if you don't have the transportation network to move goods and services and people, then you won't have that growth that is necessary. So we need to commit, to plan and dedicate resources to renew the urban spaces so that [we have] growth, long-term and sustained growth. That is missing. And I think that's one of the reasons that is contributing to the underspending in terms of our capital," she suggested. 

 

The Independent Fiscal Commission flagged the government for under-execution in capital spending in the first quarter of the financial year while highlighting revenue challenges. 

 

It said only $20.1 billion was spent in the first quarter fiscal year 2025-26, compared with a budgeted amount of $40.5 billion. 

 

In the meantime, Ms. Archer said urban renewal does not mean the absence of development in rural areas. 

 

"For example, thinking about, let's say, food security. You need to think about the road network to move goods and services to address the issue of food security. Food security, food that we have in the rural area, the agricultural areas where we have our food, not just for local, but for export elsewhere, how do we allow for that movement? That requires investment, capital investment in the road network infrastructure," she asserted.