JUTC launches downtown Kingston to Port Antonio route

 

 

The Jamaica Urban Transit Company on Wednesday launched a new route from Kingston and Portland.

 

The Route 710 bus will operate from Monday to Saturday between downtown Kingston and Port Antonio, twice daily.

 

Speaking at Wednesday morning's ceremony in Port Antonio, Transport Minister Daryl Vaz said it marked the seventh Rural Express route being introduced by the JUTC.

 

"It's a pleasure to be here to mark another Portland game-changing development in Jamaica's public transportation system. The introduction of Route 710, connecting downtown Kingston to Port Antonio via St. Thomas.... So St. Thomas will still be in the mix," the minister touted.

 

He said the aim of the government is for every rural township to have access to JUTC services.

 

"Today's launched is more than the start of a new bus route. It's a practical step towards a more connected national transport system - one that links communities, supports opportunities and makes reliable public transportation available for more Jamaicans. For too long public transportation has been viewed primarily through the lens of the Kingston Metropolitan Transport Region. But Jamaica is one country and our transportation system must serve Jamaicans wherever they live," he asserted.

 

Mr. Vaz said the expansion of the Rural Express route will continue from the fleet of 100 new electric range extender buses that are scheduled to arrive in Jamaica next year.

 

This is the third tranche of 300 committed since May 2023.