Colin M. Riley

BIODATA

Mr. Colin Riley graduated from the MIT city planning and real estate development masters programs in 2000 and has held previous appointments in town center planning, transit oriented development planning, and affordable housing development. Until quite recently Mr. Riley worked in public sector finance in the Boston area attracting grants for Boston Public Schools. At the beginning of October 2008, he joined the staff at the University of the West Indies Open Campus Montserrat as Programme Officer. Mr. Riley also holds a BA in Geography from the University of the West Indies and an MA in Geography from the University of Tennessee.

ABSTRACT

Government spending on transportation infrastructure and on the operational side of public transportation systems is a well researched topic in economic development studies. Most of this research is centered in the area of production function analysis where attempts have been made to disaggregate the economic factors that contribute to growth and development. The intent is for the researchers’ conclusions to inform better public policy. While questions remain about whether or not public sector investment in transportation can be accounted for in direct productivity gains, macroeconomists generally conclude that improved transportation contributes indirectly to greater productivity. Montserrat’s internal public transportation system and the island’s connection to the outside world have been tested during the ongoing volcano emergency. Air transportation, fast ferry access, and ground transportation have all changed to account for the disaster, with varying results. Travel to the island has been described as an adventure at best. The bus service that provides public transportation around the island is poorly organized and does not cater to the core needs of commuters. This paper will propose three ideas that, if implemented, will begin to solve the transportation problems the island faces. The presentation will draw on ideas from transportation planning and public sector finance to make the case for higher levels of public spending on transportation services for the island. The aim is to present policy options that could be considered by the government as Montserrat firms up its long term economic development plan.

© Colin M. Riley, 2008. Page last revised November 3, 2008.

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