Approximately 2,500 residents from several communities in southern Trelawny will benefit from more reliable access to potable water under a J$75 million project being undertaken by the National Water Commission (NWC).

Matthew Samuda, minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, broke ground for the Jackson Town pipeline project last Friday (January 24), which will improve water supply and distribution to Jackson Town, Barnstable, Biddeford, Bottom Common, Grove, First Hill, Stewart Town, and other areas.

The project is expected to be completed within three months and will involve the laying of 1.5 kilometres of 150-millimetre ductile iron pipe from the Barnstable Well to Jackson Town Square.

Additionally, 500 meters of replacement distribution main will be installed along the project area.

It is expected that the upgrade will enhance water access for residents, while reducing energy consumption for pumping and minimising non-revenue water loss for the NWC.

Samuda said the project represents the first phase of a broader J$500 million investment in water infrastructure for southern Trelawny.

These include upgrading Jackson Town’s 20,000-gallon water tank to 100,000-gallon capacity, as well as undertaking improvements to a lift station.

“You will remember that I also made a commitment for the commencement of works for the Warsop to the Green Town pipeline in the parish. The pipes are in Jamaica; they have been purchased and delivered and we are doing the procurement for the work now. We will soon break ground on that pipeline to commence a two-month project and invest J$250 million,” Samuda indicated.

“So, these two projects – Jackson Town Pipeline Project and the Warsop to Green Town pipeline – will see your Government invest a total of J$500 million into the water supply for the people of South Trelawny,” he pointed out.

Meanwhile, residents of the beneficiary communities expressed pleasure about the water improvement works to be undertaken.

Paula Greaves from Barnstable told JIS News that residents of the area have faced water challenges for several years.

“I hope everything works out the best way and I’m so grateful. I hope that this project solves our water problems,” Greaves said.

Jackson Town resident, Delroy McFarlane, said that the project has the potential to transform the lives of the beneficiaries.

“This project will make a big difference. It’s a wonderful thing so we give thanks,” he noted.