PHILIPSBURG:--- Traffic congestion on St. Maarten has become a pressing issue, with residents and visitors alike voicing frustrations over gridlocked roads at all hours of the day. During Wednesday’s press briefing, Minister of VROMI Patrice Gumbs Jr. addressed the growing concerns, outlining both short-term fixes and long-term strategies to tackle the island’s traffic woes.
Short-Term Fixes in Motion
Minister Gumbs highlighted several immediate measures aimed at alleviating traffic bottlenecks. Among these is the installation of new road signage to regulate traffic flow, including limiting left turns and controlling access to high-traffic areas. The signage, currently in its final procurement stages, will target congestion hotspots such as Simpson Bay and Pondfill Road.
Additionally, pothole repairs are underway to improve road conditions and reduce vehicle slowdowns. Police officers have also been deployed to manage traffic in critical areas during peak hours, providing temporary relief.
The Minister emphasized the importance of enforcing existing traffic laws, such as restricting heavy construction vehicles on roads like Link One. “It’s not just about creating new rules; it’s about ensuring people follow the ones already in place,” he stated. Garbage collection schedules are also being enforced, with haulers required to operate during off-peak hours to avoid disrupting morning traffic.
Long-Term Vision for Traffic Management
While short-term fixes are being implemented, Minister Gumbs acknowledged that sustainable solutions require a long-term approach. The government is working on a comprehensive transportation review, which includes regulating the import of vehicles and improving the island’s public transportation system.
Infrastructure development is also a key focus, with plans for filtering lanes and improved access roads, such as the Manzanilla Road, to address bottlenecks. The Minister noted that a phased approach is being taken, citing C.A Cannegieter Street as an example, where making it a one-way road has already reduced congestion in the area.
To ensure compliance with traffic regulations, the government is strengthening its enforcement mechanisms. Plans are underway to introduce fines for violations, as warning letters alone have proven ineffective. “If people don’t feel it in their pocket, they won’t take it seriously,” Minister Gumbs remarked.
Challenges During High Season
The Minister acknowledged the added strain on the island’s infrastructure during the peak tourist season, with six to eight cruise ships arriving daily. “The reality is that our infrastructure cannot handle the current volume of traffic,” he said, calling for collective action and tough decisions to address the issue.
A Call for Patience and Cooperation
Minister Gumbs concluded by urging residents to remain patient as the government works to implement both immediate and long-term solutions. “It takes all of us to make this work,” he said, emphasizing the need for collective responsibility in following traffic rules and respecting regulations.
As St. Maarten grapples with its traffic challenges, the government’s efforts to balance quick fixes with strategic planning will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders alike.
