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by pltm
(PLTM) - Recognizing the persistent traffic bottlenecks during peak hours, particularly along Waterfront Drive, the government plans to implement a series of changes that are expected to have a positive impact on the city's daily traffic woes.
Addressing the House of Assembly, Minister for Communications and Works, Hon. Kye Rymer announced a significant initiative aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing congestion in the heart of Road Town.
“We will seek to convert only the section of Main Street between the foot of Joe’s Hill by the Road Town Methodist Cemetery to the intersection of Main Street and Flemming Street into two-way traffic,” Hon. Rymer stated.
He pointed out that the rest of Main Street, starting at the same intersection of Flemming Street to Customs Road intersection in the vicinity of the Commercial Court building, will remain a one-way heading in the westerly direction.
“Madam Speaker, we have recognised that many motorists may want to head up through Joe’s Hill Road or perhaps even to Long Bush or Lower Estate become caught up in the traffic along Waterfront Drive heading towards Purcell Estate and beyond,” the Minister explained.
He explained that the limited number of roadways, coupled with the steadily increasing number of vehicles, have all led to congestion issues, particularly around lunchtime and after 4 p.m.
Motorists heading east on Waterfront Drive have faced substantial delays, mainly due to a bottleneck at the roundabout. Even alternative routes like Shore Way Drive lead to congestion at the intersection of Flemming Street and Shore Way Drive near RiteWay.
It is estimated that this new outlet will reduce traffic congestion by at least 35%, significantly improving the daily commute for residents and visitors alike.
Recognizing Main Street's narrower width compared to other roads, large trucks will be prohibited from using this segment, encouraging them to utilize alternative routes. The government has also requested designs from the Public Works Department to incorporate sidewalks, enhancing pedestrian safety.
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