Road and Traffic Changes Being Explored to Alleviate Vehicular Congestion in Lucea, Hanover

The Government will, in short order, be exploring a roadmap for road and traffic changes in Lucea, Hanover, designed to alleviate vehicular congestion in the coastal town.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, made the announcement during a meeting with representatives of the Negril Chamber of Commerce at the Couples Swept Away resort in the town on Thursday (September 7).

Dr. Chang stated that key among the changes being programmed is rehabilitation of the Malcolm Heights roadway to bypass the centre of Lucea, thereby greatly easing the traffic gridlock.

He further pointed out that Seaview Drive, which leads into Lucea, is to be paved, the drains cleared of debris and the seawall rehabilitated.

“The seawall itself is defective and if it collapses, then the main road itself will be blocked. So we are fixing that seawall, the drains and repaving the main road that comes into Lucea,” Dr Chang explained.

Additionally, Willie Delisser Boulevard is to be restored to a two-way thoroughfare according to the Deputy Prime Minister.

“Also, all the trucks that come to Lucea during the peak hours delivering goods and parking in the road… that has to stop, [because] with those trucks on that road you cannot have anything moving through,” Dr. Chang indicated.

“So, if all those things are done, then… the combination of all that in the next fortnight could make a significant difference,” he added.

Meanwhile, plans are being explored to revitalise the transport centre in Hopewell, with a view to relocating taxi operators from the streets and encouraging their utilisation of the facility.

Acting Head of the Area One Police, Senior Superintendent Vernon Ellis, said enforcement and sensitisation have begun.

He indicated that consideration is being given to installing rails along the walkway in Sandy Bay, pointing out that the Hanover Municipal Corporation is looking into the matter.

“So, we’re going to do some enforcement and some public education around it and, hopefully, we can see some results where this is concerned,” Superintendent Ellis further stated.

During the meeting, members of the business community made recommendations and pointed out areas of concerns, which included connecting to JamaicaEye, public order, traffic management, and noise breaches.