Two new lanes coming to Mammee Bay Toll Plaza to tackle weekend gridlock

Following high-level discussions led by the ministry through the National Road Operating and Constructing Company Limited (NROCC), highway operator Jamaica North South Highway Company Limited (JNSHC) has already broken ground on two additional toll lanes. The immediate construction blitz is expected to deliver swift relief to motorists who have become all too familiar with bumper-to-bumper delays during peak weekend travel.

"The addition of two new toll lanes will provide immediate relief, while the long-term expansion plan will ensure the toll plaza is equipped to meet Jamaica’s growing traffic demands," Minister Morgan declared. "We recognise the inconvenience motorists have experienced, particularly during peak weekend travel periods, and have been working closely with NROCC and the toll operator to deliver practical solutions."

Once operational, the new lanes are projected to slash queue lengths and dramatically improve service levels during the high-volume periods that have become a recurring headache for north coast travellers.

But the minister's vision extends well beyond the current construction site. In a move signalling long-term intent, JNSHC has been formally instructed to submit a comprehensive expansion blueprint to NROCC. That plan will feature full engineering designs for the future enlargement of the Mammee Bay Toll Plaza, alongside operational upgrades aimed at future-proofing the critical transport artery as traffic demand continues its upward climb.

Stephen Edwards, managing director of NROCC, threw his full support behind the measures, framing the twin interventions as both a short-term fix and a strategic investment. "The additional toll lanes represent an important short-term intervention, while the long-term expansion plans will position the Mammee Bay Toll Plaza to accommodate future growth in traffic volumes," Edwards stated, reaffirming NROCC's commitment to delivering practical traffic-flow solutions.

As part of the efficiency push, JNSHC will also ramp up promotion of its E-Pass electronic toll collection system. Officials are urging motorists to obtain the device and ensure accounts are adequately topped up before hitting the road – particularly on weekends – noting that E-Pass usage can significantly slash waiting times at the plaza.

With construction now underway, authorities are urging caution. Motorists traversing the work zone are being reminded to obey all posted signage, follow directions from traffic management personnel, and exercise heightened vigilance until the project is completed.

The ministry, through NROCC, says it will maintain close collaboration with JNSHC to roll out these and further measures aimed at delivering the safer, smoother, and more reliable highway network Jamaicans deserve.