Belize’s Infrastructure and Transport Achievements of 2024

As we wrap up 2024, News 5 is excited to bring you our digital Year in Review! This year, we're diving into the highlights and challenges of the past twelve months, all organized by themes. Join us as we look back at the stories that shaped our year…

2024 has been a transformative year for Belize’s infrastructure and transport sectors. Significant projects have been undertaken to modernise the country’s transportation network, improve accessibility, and enhance the quality of life for Belizeans.

Advancing Public Transportation: The Rise of E-Mobility

2024 marked a significant year for Belize’s public transportation, with the launch of the E-Mobility Pilot Project in Belize City. Spearheaded by the Belize City Council, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other stakeholders, the introduction of electric buses (e-buses) aims to modernise urban transit. The eco-friendly buses feature Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and accessibility options for persons with disabilities. This shift aligns with Belize’s international commitments to sustainable development and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Mayor Bernard Wagner stressed the transformative potential of the project, stating, “When change comes, people complain, but you have to embrace change. We want to transform the public transportation system, at least in the city.” The e-buses generated BZ$33,000 in revenue within five weeks, with over 15,000 passengers utilising the service. Despite the success, private bus operators voiced concerns about competition, citing unfair pricing and potential financial strain on existing operators. Attorney Arthur Saldivar, representing several city bus operators, hinted at possible legal action.

The public’s reception of the e-buses has been largely positive. Many citizens appreciate the modern amenities and the environmental benefits. The buses have been particularly beneficial for persons with disabilities, providing them with much-needed accessibility. The project has also highlighted the need for further improvements in the public transportation system, including better infrastructure and more efficient services.

The pilot project’s data will guide future expansions. Inter-district routes along the northern and western highways are expected to come online in 2025, supported by the arrival of three additional e-buses. The Belize City Council’s “501 Transit” app, which allows commuters to track buses in real time, further enhances the commuter experience.

The Belize City Council’s focus on sustainable transport extended beyond buses. The introduction of four electric taxis (E-taxis) was part of a broader e-mobility strategy. These taxis operate on a lease-to-own model with local taxi associations, starting with the Battlefield Park Taxi Association. Commuters will be able to hail taxis using the “Mi Driva” app, akin to ride-hailing services like Uber. This initiative aims to modernise Belize’s taxi system while promoting cleaner, greener urban transit options.

New Bridges, New Horizons

A key development in 2024 was the completion and inauguration of the Haulover Bridge—the longest bridge in Belize and the sixth-longest in Central America. Built at a cost of BZ$30.9 million, this bridge was conceptualised under the previous administration but executed under the People’s United Party government. With a length of 500 meters, it significantly enhances traffic flow between Belize City and the north of the country.

Prime Minister John Briceño lauded the bridge as “an engineering marvel made in Belize by Belizeans,” while Minister of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH), Julius Espat, said this was a testament to Belizean resilience and ingenuity. The bridge, designed and built by Belizean engineers, reduces travel times and bolsters connectivity between Belize City and the northern districts, supporting socio-economic development.

Meanwhile, urgent attention was drawn to the deteriorating condition of the Belcan Bridge. Structural assessments revealed significant spalling (concrete peeling) on the substructure’s piers, exposing internal reinforcements. Chief Engineer Evondale Moody confirmed that plans to replace the bridge, estimated at BZ$17 million, were delayed pending the Ministry of Finance’s final approval of funding. While awaiting resolution, large-scale events such as parades were diverted from the bridge to avoid further strain on its compromised structure.

Roads and Highways: Repair, Upgrade, and Maintenance

Weather-induced damages, particularly from heavy rains, placed Belize’s road network under significant pressure in 2024. The Belize City Council’s Street Damage Assessment Report found that 147 streets across the city’s 10 constituencies required repairs. Collet topped the list for costliest repairs, with an estimated bill of BZ$423,000 for 10 streets, while Lake Independence had the highest number of streets (27) in need of work.

City Administrator Albert Vaughan assured the public that BZ$1.6 million would be sourced to repair these roads. Efforts were already underway to address damage caused by incessant rains, which had eroded streets and highways across the country. Belize City has seen extensive street repairs, particularly on St. Thomas Street, which had been in disrepair for months. The repairs were funded through a collaborative effort between Belize Telecommunications Limited (BTL), Belize Water Services (BWS), and the MIDH.

Cemetery Road, which had not seen repair work for several years, is now receiving urgently needed resurfacing at two different locations. The Belize City Council and the MIDH are overseeing separate sections of the road, ensuring comprehensive rehabilitation. This project is expected to improve traffic flow and reduce vehicle maintenance costs for residents.

The northern and western entrances to Belize City are in deplorable condition, with large potholes and damaged culverts. The MIDH has been working around the clock to repair these critical arteries, although the recent rains have delayed progress. The Philip Goldson Highway from the Buttonwood Bay Roundabout to the city is already going through the procurement process, with work expected to start soon.

MIDH had its hands full with emergency repairs near the Bermudian Landing Bridge after heavy rainfall caused a road collapse. Minister Julius Espat said that such incidents are routine challenges his ministry faces year-round.

The paving of the San Carlos Road under the Resilient Rural Belize Program has been a major milestone. This project, valued at $1.19 million, aims to improve access for farmers and residents, facilitating the transport of agricultural produce to markets. The road has been designed to meet international standards, ensuring durability and resilience against weather conditions.

The rehabilitation of the Valley of Peace access road, funded by the Green Climate Fund, has been crucial for the agricultural community. This road supports the transport of perishable goods, reducing wastage and improving market access for farmers. The project has been designed to international standards, ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience.

The Coastal Highway saw significant setbacks this year when a bulldozer accident caused severe damage to the road’s surface. Reports indicated that the pin securing a tow hitch broke, leading to the bulldozer sliding off a flatbed and damaging the road. MIDH responded promptly, initiating repairs.

In northern Belize, the Corozal Free Zone’s development continued with the groundbreaking of a new 2.6-kilometre access road from the old bridge at the Rio Hondo to the Free Zone’s entrance. Funded by a BZ$1.9 million grant from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) and an additional BZ$1 million from the Belize government, the new access road aims to improve trade and commerce. CEO of the Corozal Free Zone, Neri Ramirez, reported significant growth, with over 1.1 million visitors and BZ$540 million in sales recorded in 2023.

Transport Sector Regulation and Modernisation

Belize’s transport sector saw regulatory changes, with Minister of Transport Rodwell Ferguson announcing updated standards for bus operators. Initially, bus operators were expected to modernise 50% of their fleets by December 2023 and 100% by the end of 2024. However, following industry pushback, the government considered extending deadlines to support compliance. Chief Transport Officer Leon Gentle noted that many operators had shown good faith efforts by registering newer buses and upgrading their fleets.

Nighttime highway patrols were also announced as part of efforts to reduce overcrowding on buses. This initiative, spearheaded by the Transport Department in collaboration with the Belize Police Department, aims to ensure safer highway travel.

Belize has made strides in developing a framework for public-private partnerships (PPPs) to support infrastructure projects. The new PPP policy, introduced in 2021, has laid the groundwork for future collaborations, although the country still faces challenges in managing and implementing these projects effectively. The policy has created a PPP unit and steering committee, which are expected to play a crucial role in future infrastructure development.

The infrastructure and transport initiatives align with Belize’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting sustainable cities and communities. The focus on eco-friendly transport solutions and resilient infrastructure is expected to drive further progress in the coming years. The government’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality are also in line with global environmental goals.

Securing funding for large-scale infrastructure projects remains a significant challenge. The MIDH has been in discussions with various international financial institutions to secure loans and grants for critical projects. The government has also been exploring innovative financing solutions, such as public-private partnerships, to bridge the funding gap.

Engaging the community and raising public awareness about the benefits of infrastructure projects is crucial for their success. The government has been working to involve local communities in the planning and implementation of projects, ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed. Public awareness campaigns have also been launched to educate citizens about the benefits of sustainable transport solutions and the importance of maintaining infrastructure.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As Belize pushes forward with its infrastructure and transport agenda, 2025 promises to be pivotal. Projects like the Belcan Bridge replacement and the inter-district e-bus rollout will test the country’s financial planning and project management capacity. Meanwhile, innovations like the “Mi Driva” app and e-taxis signal a shift towards technology-driven transport solutions. With climate change pressures mounting, Belize’s commitment to sustainable mobility and resilient infrastructure will remain at the forefront of its development agenda.