It was an important moment standing on the Oaks Bridge, a structure older than me, and a reminder of the state of much of our infrastructure across Jamaica, old, worn, and in need of care. For many years, our bridges were not properly maintained because the economy was too weak to afford it. That is why we have changed our approach. We are no longer just building things and hoping they last. Everything we build now will come with a plan and a budget for maintenance. Through the Accelerated Bridge Programme, we will repair and replace 48 bridges across the island, plus seven emergency bridges. Many of these will be in vulnerable areas like St. James, Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, Hanover and Trelawny. These bridges are critical for daily life, for school, work, farming and business. As the economy grows stronger, we are investing more in maintaining our roads and bridges.(Andrew Holness)