As calls grow louder for better public transportation across Belize, the Ministry of Transport is offering a bold new vision for the future of commuting. Earlier this week, we spoke with Transport Minister Doctor Louis Zabaneh, who shared an alternate perspective on how the ministry plans to meet the rising demands of commuters. According to Doctor Zabaneh, meaningful upgrades, like improved bus terminals and better buses, can only happen if bus operators unite under a single national bus company. He explained that while commuters deserve better services, achieving those improvements is nearly impossible with thirty-one separate operators running across the country.
Louis Zabaneh
Doctor Louis Zabaneh, Minister of Transport
“Many of the larger countries, our neighbors have much fewer bus lines that are able to achieve the economies of scale. That is critical to the formula for us to attain sustainability and be able to achieve those types of services we want in 2025, quality terminals, buses, a schedule that works for the people according to the demand we have. Those things will not be resolved if we continue to have numerous bus lines on the road. And, giving them subsidies is no guarantee that they are going to be improving the quality of service that people deserve.”
On Wednesday, we brought you the Ministry of Transport’s bold vision to unify the country’s public transit system under a single national bus company. But that vision has hit a speed bump. The Belize Bus Owners Association is pushing back, hard. Their concern? That this proposal could drive independent operators off the road and threaten the livelihoods of dozens of families who rely on the industry. The association is calling for fairness and transparency as the government moves forward. In response, Transport Minister Doctor Louis Zabaneh told News Five that the opposition is not as widespread as it may seem. He claims only a small group of operators are resisting the idea and emphasized that the plan is still in its early stages. But when we reached out today for an update, C.E.O. of the Ministry of Transport, Chester Williams, declined to comment, saying he could not disclose any further details at this time.
Chester Williams, CEO, Ministry of Transport
“The minister is the one dealing directly with the bus issue meeting with the different bus owners. Yes, I do attend the meetings with him, but I leave that for him to be able to address. I don’t think I am in a place to be able to comment on that because he’s a lead in that aspect and that’s a policy issue. So that’s a matter for the minister. When he have decided exactly what route will go, then it is passed down to be as the CO to ensure that there’s execution in terms of what the policy of the minister is.” 9:40 So, what’s next for Belize’s bus system? That remains to be seen.”
But one thing is clear—the road to reform may be longer and bumpier than expected.
You may remember the alarming incident last year when two women narrowly escaped serious injury after parts of the Novelo’s Bus Terminal roof came crashing down. While the roof was quickly patched up, the scare exposed a much bigger issue—the terminal is in desperate need of full renovation. Well, change is finally on the horizon. Today, the government made a public commitment to revamping the heavily used terminal. C.E.O. of the Ministry of Transport, Chester Williams, toured the facility alongside Chief Transport Officer Leon Gentle and Deputy Transport Officer Peter Williams to assess the damage and discuss what improvements are coming. We caught up with the team during their walkthrough to find out what commuters can expect from the upcoming upgrades.
Chester Williams
Chester Williams, C.E.O., Ministry of Transport
“From my tour of the terminal itself, we have seen a number of deficiencies things that we believe needs to be improved. One of the main concerns that people have is that when it rains, the terminals do take water, at least about three inches of water inside the terminal itself. And so they may be a need to bring in a contractor to look at it and see what, if anything can be done to raise the flooring. Perhaps maybe about three inches and that way the water will be able to slide out of the terminals as opposed to coming into the terminal. Again, the seating arrangement inside the terminal is certainly inadequate. We just have one metal thing on the chair that people sit on. I don’t think that it’s comfortable for anybody to, to sit on, and so that needs to be improved. There is nothing inside the terminal that tells the commuter the commuters what are the schedule of the buses. And so we’re looking at putting in screens in the terminals that will be able to depict the bus schedules of each of the different bus companies so that when you come to the terminal and you want and what time, what bus will leave, you can go to the screen just like when I go to on airport and the screen will tell you James will leave at the set time. BWOC will leave at the set time and that will be able to help people to schedule themselves more better. We have bathrooms where that women are using and the doors are broken. People can go and peep on them when they’re using the bathroom. It cannot work. These bathrooms are used by pregnant women on a daily basis. Who traverses the terminal. Again, we have to make sure the bathrooms are in a state of good hygiene. I am happy to see that the terminal supervisor, Ms. Hyde, she seems to be on top of her game. ’cause I can say that while the infrastructure may not be how we want it to be in terms of the cleanliness of the bathroom, it is extremely clean. So I can see that they’re doing well in terms of maintaining the cleanness of the bathroom. And so we will work with them to make sure that we can fix the problem that do exist. Again, the objective is to make sure we provide good quality service to and people.”
The Ministry of Transport has floated the idea of creating a single national bus company, but not everyone’s on board. The Belize Bus Owners Association is pushing back, saying the proposal could sideline the very operators who’ve kept the country moving under tough conditions. Transport Minister Doctor Louis Zabaneh and C.E.O. Chester Williams presented the plan to bus owners earlier this month. But just weeks later, the BBOA issued a public statement calling for fairness in the industry. They say their members have been struggling without access to key financial support and outlined four demands aimed at creating a more level playing field. The association believes that with the right support and policies, Belize’s bus industry can thrive long-term. However, Minister Zabaneh says he’s read the release and claims that many BBOA members don’t actually support the demands being made.
Louis Zabaneh
Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Minister of Transport
“I read their release and the first thing I tried to find out was how many of the bus owners supported the release. After making some calls a number of the larger bus owners are not supporting the release, inf act they are willing to continue with the process we have laid out to revenue the proposal we have made. For those who did support the release, which is a minority we anticipated their would be some concerns. That is natural with something as transformational for them. We have a meeting scheduled for next Friday, the second meeting as we agreed to start to look at some of the details going forward. From what they proposed it is a plan that will still not resolve most of the issues we have. The reason being that the industry cannot attain economies of scale with thirty-one operators along our highway. That is a large number of operators in a very small country, relatively speaking.”
An internal investigation at the Ministry of Transport has uncovered troubling signs that money collected for services may not be making it into government accounts. Minister of Transport, Doctor Louis Zabaneh, says that shortly after stepping into the role a few weeks ago, he noticed irregularities in operations across the country. The ministry quickly launched a formal investigation, and now, a detailed report outlining the findings is on the desk of the Director of Public Prosecutions. So, does this mean former Transport Minister Rodwell Ferguson is in hot water? Not necessarily. According to Doctor Zabaneh, the investigation isn’t pointing fingers just yet. This development comes just a week after Public Service Union President Dean Flowers publicly called on the ministry to investigate how things were run under Ferguson’s leadership. Doctor Zabaneh confirmed the investigation is ongoing and says more details will be shared as the process unfolds.
Louis Zabaneh
Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Minister of Transport
“When we came in we found irregularities across the country and we have a case with the DPP who we are looking at scenarios that we have seen and are investigating. So I cant speak to it specifically, so we are taking steps that is our responsibility. We feel that until we are able to make an example of rogue employees whoa re there stealing the resources of our people, that maybe until then it continues business as usual and hopefully people get the message we are serious. We are aiming to do precisely what we need to do to make people understand that these things will not be tolerated and there are consequences to that type of action. What we are seeing is that there is collusion between various levels. What happens is when you don’t have system in place where there is clear terms of reference for people in terms of who is responsible for what then there is always a setting where people can point fingers and say it was not me it was that one and the other one. So these are things we need to ensure that we make it clear. There are persons from different levels that we are investigating.”
Paul Lopez
“The obvious question would be if the former minister could find himself in some hot water.”
Dr. Louis Zabaneh
“At this point what we are looking at is in the hands of the DPP. These are things like people coming for services at the window. Certain amount of money is collected at that level and it does not reach into the coffers of government. There are schemes that they use to take these monies into their own pockets, those types of things.”
We wait to see what the outcome of this investigation will be and if anyone will be criminally charged based on the findings.
Today, the Ministry of Transport launched a new bus route to help travelers along the Coastal Plain Highway. For months, residents of Gales Point village and nearby areas have been vocal about the difficulties of getting to Belize City from Dangriga. Despite the upgrades to the Coastal Plain Highway, no bus company was willing to take on the route—until now. Alma Bus Service has stepped up to fill the gap. We spoke with Minister of Transport Rodwell Ferguson to find out who will benefit from this new service.
Rodwell Ferguson
Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Transport
“There has been a request for several months from the village of Gales Point and Maldiva to facilitate a bus run through the coastal area. But those are the only two communities on the highway and they are very small. And so when they check with some operators, they are saying, I don’t know if it’s going to be profitable. So a couple months ago, a gentleman came to me, who lives in the middle of Santa Cruz, Town Creek. But he’s originally from Gales Point. He she want to take up a challenge to try a bus run through the coastal highway from Santa Cruz to Dangriga, past Molngeva, past Gales Point, into Belize City. Right away, I welcomed the idea and I ask him to apply to the Belize Transport Board to see if were going to get their approval. Right away, they welcomed it because they said, we are waiting for somebody to come to take up this challenge and this route. Because most people believe it’s not going to be profitable, but even if Santa Cruz were to pass Hopkins Junction, Mile Center, Silk Grass. he believe that he’s going to pick up passengers along that road into Dangriga into Belize City. So the bus leaves Santa Cruz at 4 30 in the morning. Should we should reach police about 7 45 for those who want which in time for work and return from this at three p. m. in the afternoon. So let’s hope it’s gonna work. Because we have Gilles Point, and Malingeva is the dining of some kind of transportation mode. It started this morning. And so myself and the chief transport officer went to Dangriga this morning to see what would have been the first impression. I guess people don’t know about the bus as yet. And so only four passengers left Dangriga this morning, but I believe in time is going to pick up.”
Britney Gordon
“You said that the first bus is at 4. 30 a.m. Do you know when the last bus is and how frequently they move off?”
Rodwell Ferguson
“There’s only one bus for right now on the trail. It leaves Santa Cruz at 4:30 a. m. and should reach Belize at 8 a. m. in the morning more or less. It’s to see what would be the requirements and needs.”
Britney Gordon
“Right, I know it’s in its trial. He’s trying it out for now. Do you know how much it costs to, to do this route? And what type of bus it is? If it’s like one of those repurposed school buses, or if it’s a similar to a Floralia bus.”
Rodwell Ferguson
“I will send you a picture of the bus. It’s a 2005, I can’t remember the brand, but it’s a beautiful bus in and out. I got into the bus this morning. Even the air conditioning was very cold.”
After months of complaints from residents of Gales Point Village, a new bus route has been launched to connect travelers from Dangriga, Gales Point, and Belize City. The Ministry of Transport says this new route shows their commitment to improving connectivity and ensuring everyone has access to public transportation. Minister of Transport Rodwell Ferguson elaborated on this commitment earlier this morning. Here’s what he had to say.
Britney Gordon
“A while ago there were some people that were stranded in Gales Point along that route. So we can see this avoiding future instances like that, right?”
Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Transport
“Definitely after the gentleman told me it was going to start on Monday, I call the chairman of Gales Point excited because people are really stranded on the highway and they are more connected to Belize City. So once the bus goes in that direction, they can go to Belize City to do their shopping and come back. I also want to concentrate in January 2025, regarding Transport Planning Department. I am going to ask them to look around the entire country to see where what source can be made available once it becomes profitable to the operator.”
With Christmas just two days away, the Ministry of Transport is urging all Belizeans to stay safe this holiday season. Drivers, passengers, and pedestrians are all advised to prioritize safety and follow traffic regulations. As the year ends, many families are reflecting on loved ones lost in road accidents this year. In a statement earlier today, the Ministry noted that increased travel and holiday activities will lead to heavier traffic, raising the risk of accidents and disruptions. They urge everyone to exercise caution and follow traffic rules, including speed limits, seatbelt requirements, and pedestrian crossing signals. Drivers are also reminded to avoid distractions like mobile phone use and to designate a sober driver if they plan to drink. Before long road trips, make sure your vehicle is in good condition to prevent breakdowns and ensure a smooth journey. There will be more traffic patrols and roadside checks throughout the season, and fines will be issued for traffic violations. The Ministry wishes everyone a safe and joyous holiday season.
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.
In early 2023, the Ministry of Transport introduced new standards for public transportation, setting age limits for various bus services. Road service permits would require premier buses to be no older than ten years, economy buses capped at twenty years, and rural buses at twenty-five years. Operators were expected to upgrade fifty percent of their fleet by December 2023 and fully update their entire fleet by the end of 2024. While efforts have been made to comply, bus operators have encountered challenges in meeting the proposed timeline, as Chief Transport Officer Leon Gentle explains.
Leon Gentle
Leon Gentle, Chief Transport Officer
“We did do an inspection last week. We are formulating that report and that report would be what helps us to make that decision as the way forward.”
Reporter
“So there is a possibility that the deadline might be extended?”
Leone Gentle
“There might be a possibility that it might be extended.”
Reporter
“What was maybe some of the major points of contention then from the bus operators?”
Leon Gentle
“Primarily the financial aspect of it. As you all know, we are trying to get them to transition to an upgraded buses. And the issue with that is finance. And so we have been working with them to be able to see how we can move that forward for them.”
Reporter
“But have they been putting in the effort?”
Leon Gentle
“They have been putting in the effort? That is something that is notable you would see. And I can say that from a standpoint of the registration of new buses. And so there has been an increase of that throughout the past couple of months, and we’ve seen where they have made their efforts in making that a possibility.”
