Well, the topic has probably aroused a response already and I could probably just stop writing, but I shall force myself to expound on this issue.
It may be hard to fathom but St. Kitts (specifically Downtown Basseterre) actually has “RUSH HOURS.” What is even more striking is that our “RUSH HOURS” rival those of metropolitan cities like New York City (relatively speaking).
So isn’t it time for traffic signals in St. Kitts?
Traffic signals have become a valuable tool for ensuring traffic flow throughout a community. Some of the signals are timed to work with other traffic signals and allow continuous flow from one signal to another. Others are timed so that if you are driving at the posted speed limit, you will receive a green signal at each intersection as you progress down the street. Others are on preset timers where the red, green and yellow indicators will cycle for a specified time period.
Considering the growing vehicular traffic on our island, I think it is about time that we implement a proper traffic signal system in our island.
It would be ideal if every driver could drive without stopping from one destination to another. But we live in the real-world, not a vacuum and free flow is not possible even with the most intricate, well-designed traffic signal systems. However, the goal of the St. Kitts Traffic Department should be to provide the most comfortable and safe environment by getting the greatest number of vehicles through the system with the fewest stops.
We boast constantly of our economic growth, educational advancements, manufacturing & construction growth, increasing tourism development etc, but with these advancements have come more and more vehicles on our roads (which have little or no room for expansion). So isn’t it time for traffic signals in St. Kitts?
Footnote: Nevertheless, I hope that we don’t totally end the traditional traffic officer at Fort & Cayon Streets, I enjoyed seeing that a lot as a child and still do and tourists enjoy seeing the flare and style with which it is done.
