$4.2B BOUNDBROOK URBAN CENTRE BREAKS GROUND IN PORTLAND 18-MONTH TIMELINE SET

PORT ANTONIO, JAMAICA, A major economic boost is underway for Portland as construction officially begins on the long-anticipated $4.2-billion Boundbrook Urban Centre. According to Factories Corporation of Jamaica (FCJ) Chairman Lyttleton “Tanny” Shirley, the $2.8-billion construction phase will be completed in 18 months, with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) breaking ground last Thursday.

The project — located on the former Boundbrook Industrial Estate — will span 6.68 acres and mirrors the developmental style of the Morant Bay Urban Centre. Shirley emphasized a strategic approach where commercial tenants begin retrofitting even as landscaping and exterior finishes are being finalized.

Spearheaded by FCJ, equity partners include Barita and NCB Capital Markets. The first phase will feature 148,000 square feet of building space, including 6,000 square feet for BPO, which is expected to create 3,000 jobs.

🛠️ A Game Changer for Portland
Member of Parliament for Portland Eastern Ann-Marie Vaz called the project a "dream come true" and a "game changer" for East Portland. “This is one of the proudest days for me… This is going to be a game changer for my East Portland family, where shared prosperity for all will happen.”

The project has been in planning since 2017 and will host vital government services, including the Portland Municipal Corporation, Registrar General’s Department, tax office, and a range of commercial services — from fast food and banking to healthcare, a gym, and a supermarket.

⚙️ Next Phase & Local Employment
Phase two is already on the radar — transforming railway lands for tourism-linked developments. Shirley assured the public that Portland residents will be prioritized for construction jobs.

🏗️ Construction Oversight & Quality Control
Kencasa Construction and Project Management Ltd., a local firm, will oversee the project’s management, cost efficiency, and quality standards. CEO Kirk Kennedy reassured that the team is committed to delivering on time and within budget.

🌱 Community Backing & Government Support
Shirley praised Portland Mayor Paul Thompson, the Municipal Corporation, and other stakeholders for their responsiveness and efficiency. “This is what Government agencies ought to be — helping execution, not stifling it,” he stated.

🗣️ Our Opinion
The Boundbrook Urban Centre represents visionary progress rooted in community impact. With jobs, infrastructure, and public-private synergy, it’s the type of long-term development Jamaica needs across all parishes. Execution will be key — but Portland is clearly on the rise.

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