The Universal Service Fund (USF) has restored more than 80 per cent of its 415 public Wi-Fi sites impacted by Hurricane Melissa, representing an investment of approximately $801 million.
While the agency initially targeted full restoration by the hurricane’s first anniversary, progress was delayed by a shortage of specialised contractors and limited supplier capacity.
As part of its ongoing recovery efforts, the USF relaunched 14 free Wi-Fi sites across Trelawny at an investment of approximately $28 million, with restoration activities continuing in eastern Jamaica. The agency has also strengthened its network resilience by incorporating satellite connectivity and solar power at several locations to help maintain service during future disruptions to traditional electricity and fibre-optic infrastructure.