USTDA Supports Smart Cities in Jamaica

USTDA release

Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Trade and Development Agency has awarded a grant to Jamaica’s electric utility Jamaica Public Service Company Limited for technical assistance to transform New Kingston into a smart city. USTDA’s funding will help JPS identify and deploy smart technologies and develop a roadmap for broader smart cities implementation throughout the country.

“The timing is perfect for this technical assistance, as global circumstances demonstrate the need for continued investment in reliable and resilient infrastructure,” said Todd Abrajano, USTDA’s Chief Operating Officer and Head of Agency. “We are certain that helping New Kingston become a smart city and deploying smart technologies throughout Jamaica will make a lasting impact on the lives of so many people.”

“The technical assistance grant from USTDA will provide a big boost to JPS’ vision for a smart city in New Kingston, Jamaica,” said Michel Gantois, JPS’ President and CEO. “And we cannot do this alone. Partnerships are essential for the success of a project of this nature. The establishment of a smart city requires public-private partnerships, as well as the active involvement of stakeholders across sectors.”

JPS selected Virginia-based Tuatara Group to carry out the assistance, which will create opportunities for U.S. companies to export cutting edge ICT and energy solutions. The assistance will also leverage the smart street lighting infrastructure and control systems already implemented in New Kingston as a result of USTDA’s previous successful engagement with JPS.

USTDA’s first projects in Jamaica date back to 1992 – the same year as the Agency’s founding – and have supported both the private and public sectors in critical infrastructure development. USTDA’s support of this project aligns with the Administration’s priorities in the Latin American and Caribbean Region and supports the goals of the Growth in the Americas (America Crece) Initiative.