THE JAMAICA Public Service Company (JPS) says it has relocated approximately 2,000 posts to facilitate the construction of the North Coast Highway project.
According to JPS, the project team is currently working on the Montego Bay to Falmouth section of the new highway. The power company notes that the relocation and replacement of the light poles not only facilitates the development of the new highway, but provides JPS with a chance to upgrade its distribution system.
INVOLVEMENT CRITICAL
The North Coast Highway project runs from Negril to Portland, spanning approximately 288 kilometres of roadway. JPS' involvement is critical as the company is responsible for relocating all light poles and electrical accessories along the route. The creation of a 'free corridor' will facilitate the smooth construction of the highway and the completion of the project within its projected timeline, explained Dale Dunkley, project manager.
"Most of the lines that existed along the corridor of the new highway were old and once we take them down we do not reuse them. We therefore get an opportunity to put in new lines which will ensure a more reliable supply to our customers," Dunkley said.
He also indicated that the new lines will reduce the amount of resources spent on maintenance, and added, "We are replacing the poles with concrete poles which are guaranteed to last 50 years. These concrete poles also utilise less attachments and this means that they are more aesthetically pleasing."
"We are happy to be associated with a project that has such profound implications for national development," said Dunkley. "The magnitude of the work is great but the commitment and co-operation displayed by the team is extraordinary and as a result we are sure that this project will be completed within its scheduled timeline."
