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NEW TRAFFIC SIGNALS INSTALLED AND ACTIVATED IN SPANISH TOWN

Consequent on the increase in traffic congestion in Spanish Town, St. Catherine, new traffic signals were installed and activated in the old capital on Wednesday, March 29, 2006.

The new signals were turned on at the intersections of Sligoville/Twickenham Park Main road and Burke Road/Barrett Street, two of the busiest thoroughfares in the town. In a traffic count exercise undertaken at the intersections, it was noted that over a 12 hour period, 24,500 vehicles used the Burke Street/ Barrett Street intersection. It is estimated that there will be significant increases in the number of vehicles traversing the particular intersections, hence the reason for the introduction of the new traffic signals.

The lights were turned on by Minister of State, Dr. Fenton Ferguson who noted that the activation of the traffic lights was a part of the Ministry’s overall traffic management programme. He said that the presence of the signals will enhance the town’s ability to handle the growing congestion in the town.

Work on the project started in October 2005 and the plan was to have it completed in December of last year but there were delays due to additional road works related to pavement upgrades and road markings. The scope of works included state of the art computerised traffic signals that use vehicle sensors which adjust, based on traffic demands.

Cost of the project was approximately $6M.

Further improvements are being planned for the area – these will be implemented later this year at White Church Street, Young Street and Job Lane. Additional road markings and signs are also being planned for these areas.