A multimillion dollar road building project, designed to ease congestion in and around Warrens, St Michael, has run into a number of concerns from residents.
During the first of several planned town hall meetings at the Queen’s College auditorium on Tuesday night residents told representatives from the Ministry of Transport and Works, contractors and various related agencies of their fears and discomfort with some sections of the project.
Chief among the concerns were the absence of any provision for pedestrian crossings, and omission of plans to help prohibit minibuses and other drivers from using various communities to avoid traffic during the construction period.
One resident of Welches Terrace, who gave her name as Barbara, complained that she would have to do more driving to get home since she would not be allowed to make a right turn if she was travelling from the south. A number of other residents supported her.
Some people also demanded better markings on the roadways, more sidewalks, better drainage and more provisions to protect children and the physically challenged.
For each complaint the panel provided an answer. The residents were reassured that what was outlined was the best way to ease traffic congestion. They were also told that some of their complaints would be further looked at and examined.
Residents were advised to take the necessary precautions against noise and dust pollution associated with the construction.
It was also announced that requests may also be made for some residents to give up pieces of land in areas which are to be widened. (MM)
