MP wants to remake Back Road into Jamaica’s Las Vegas

If St Catherine South East Member of Parliament (MP) Robert Miller has his way, the Sunshine City of Portmore could soon experience a mega makeover.

Miller shared his bold vision to transform the infamous Port Henderson Road--better known as 'Back Road'--into a highly sough-after destination. His ambitious dream includes transforming Back Road into Jamaica's longest, glitziest 'hip strip', packed with luxury hotels, sizzling restaurants and endless entertainment.

Back Road is curently home to several motels, bars, restuarants and nightclubs, but is best known for its reputation as a red-light district.

"I am committed to revitalising Port Henderson Road. This area has significant potential to become a prime tourist destination with its existing attractions. It could be Jamaica's longest hip strip, offering something for everyone," Miller said during his contribution to the State of the Constituency Debate in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.

Contacted by this newspaper to shed light on his vision for the area, Miller likened his vision for Port Henderson Road to the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, with bright lights and lively entertainment. To achieve this, he stressed the need for significant infrastructural improvements, including the demolition of old buildings.

"Our aim is to completely transform the infrastructure, clean up the area, and remove old, dilapidated buildings. We also plan to install signage to highlight Portmore's journey towards becoming its own parish," he explained.

Miller's plans also include upgrading the nearby fishing village into a modern facility, acknowledging its cultural and economic importance to Portmore.

"We want to engage the community and invite them to be part of this vision," Miller concluded. "With their support, we can make it a reality," the MP said.

Miller revealed that Port Henderson Road is already a social hub for high-profile individuals, though this is not widely known. He proposed creating a 'Walk of Fame' to honour those who have significantly contributed to Portmore's development, such as the city's first mayor, George Lee.

"As Portmore moves towards parish status, the goal is to make it fitting, to have all the features needed to boost tourism and economic growth. We have reached out to sponsors, and the feedback has been positive. We just need to begin, for it to become a transformed location," Miller said.

Addressing concerns about the area's long-standing association with prostitution, Miller believes that revitalising the area with legitimate businesses and better lighting will help reduce illegal activities.

"Prostitution is illegal in Jamaica, but by creating a space filled with legitimate businesses, lights, and activities, we believe these activities will diminish," he reasoned.