Deputy spokesperson for Tourism Doreen Campbell is demanding several infrastructure improvements for Portland residents including road infrastructure and access to potable water.

Her call follows a recent announcement by Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett that Jamaica has seen a 28 per cent increase in Airbnb activities islandwide between January to December last year, compared to the previous year.

However, Campbell says Portland remains overlooked showing minimal improvement in visitor arrivals and local Airbnb services despite its potential.

“Renowned for its natural beauty and eco-tourism potential, Portland faces significant challenges, including severely inadequate roadway conditions and a concerning lack of potable water. Visitors are distressed over-relying on trucked water and water stored in black tanks, fearing health risks like stomach viruses. These issues not only reduce the area’s appeal but also undermine the well-being and livelihoods of local residents,” Campbell said.

Campbell further noted that poor road infrastructure extends travel times to tourist destinations affecting the overall visitor experience.

She is now calling for a fair share of the Tourism Enhancement Fund to be allocated towards upgrading Portland’s basic infrastructure.

“This support is essential for enabling local Airbnb operators and the broader community to thrive and contribute meaningfully to Jamaica’s tourism industry,” Campbell added.