Project: "Due Diligence" for Re-opening of Jamaica’s Railroad Client: National Investment Bank of Jamaica
Jamaica has about 250 route miles of railroad, of which 77 is currently active to handle privately operated bauxite (aluminum ore) trains. Passenger and public freight service ceased in 1992, but increasing road congestion and poor highway conditions have caused the government to re-examine the commercial feasibility of rail operations.
Zeta-Tech was engaged by NIBJ to evaluate plans prepared by an third party overseas joint venture. The venture was to reopen the Jamaican railroad network to new passenger and freight service. The joint venture had requested government financial support of the new rail venture. Zeta-Tech was asked to provide an objective review of:
Upon completion of these tasks, Zeta-Tech was asked to independently provide plans for Kingston passenger (commuter rail) operations. These involved meetings with providers of public transportation services in the Kingston area.
ZETA-TECH’s Commuter Service Conclusions and Recommendations were delivered early to The Bank in November 1999. Separate Freight Business Plan Conclusions & Recommendations were delivered in early January 2000.
The Bank has now asked for project management work plan, a task beyond the scope of the existing contract.