Towards a resilient logistics hub: The SAJ’S vision for Newport West and Jamaica
Jamaica’s shipping legacy resides in Newport West community – a hub of trade and resilience invaluable to the development of the nation and its people.
Despite its rich history, the community is plagued by chronic issues affecting commercial activities.
The Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ) has witnessed the area’s gradual decline hastened by issues of recurring flooding, dilapidated roadways, unregulated parking, and varied safety concerns. In the ongoing quest to revitalise Newport West and realise the association’s dream of creating a world-class industrial park, successive SAJ presidents have engaged the public and private sectors to combat the pervasive challenges.
Though some progress has been made, the Association often finds itself awaiting action to further the project, balancing the situation’s urgency and the deliberate pace of change.
The SAJ, in its 85th year of operation, has entered an era of reimagining and retooling. In an encouraging step to secure support for Newport West and the nation’s Global Logistics Hub objective, the SAJ recently dialogued with the European Union (EU).
The meeting conveyed the importance of these projects and the efficacy of a publicprivate sector partnership approach. The association aims to secure funding on two fronts integral to EU'S broader support of sustainable projects.
The primary thrust involves a comprehensive review of the Logistics Hub's broader vision, culminating in a pilot project: the Newport West Economic Zone. This project, championed by the SAJ for years, is an extensive proposal captured in a feasibility study with revenue models, implementation plans, and a budget.
Alongside that, a second study will address flooding on Marcus Garvey Drive and in Newport West, serving as the foundation to engage private sector partners in a sustainable drainage solution.
The SAJ foresees Newport West as more than an industrial zone but a core of possibilities. The focal points of this vision are grounded in the following goals:
Road Network Connectivity: A web of roads, including the integration of an underpass or overpass north of Marcus Garvey Drive, laying the foundation for seamless connectivity and future expansion.
Road Rehabilitation and Development: A comprehensive plan ensuring the highest standards for efficient transport and logistics operations.
Drainage Rehabilitation: Robust systems and sea defences to safeguard infrastructure.
Solid Waste Management System and Infrastructure: The SAJ envisions a stateof-the-art waste management system with global sustainability standards.
Water Storage, Production, and Transmission: A strategic approach ensuring the community’s self-sufficiency.
Port Infrastructure, Equipment, and Connectivity: Transforming Newport West's port infrastructure to embrace cutting-edge equipment and digital connectivity to meet the global supply chain demands.
The SAJ foresees meticulous zoning and building codes, security measures, entrance gates fortified with safety measures and signage, electronic surveillance and internal traffic and parking plans with strict enforcement, and thoughtfully designed landscaping. What’s more, public amenities, including daycare facilities and food services, will enhance the quality of life for those contributing to the zone's success.
Underpinned by resilience, sustainability, and joint partnerships, the logistics hub is not a distant dream; it’s a credible solution ready to usher in years of economic growth.