Remy

Originally Posted by Remy

This Government is on record as condemning the plans of the previous Government for highway expansion as a waste of money and as being untimely. I think otherwise. This country is in need of at least one Major road way. I suggested the following to the previous Government and submit same for the consideration of the current Minister of works.

Some time ago I argued that the building of the over pass will not solve the traffic woes of this country as envisage by some. I opined then that all this costly project will do is move the bottle neck from one point and place it some where else. I stated then that the government should find an alternative to this project. It appears I am more prophetic than I thought. For, in light of congestions which still occur on a daily basis there and the many complaints voiced it is becoming increasingly obvious we still have a serious traffic problem at this intersection. One is left to conclude therefore, that save for its aesthetic value this project failed to meet the expectations for which it was originally conceived.

My advice was not asked for but seeing this is the season for promises I offer again for consideration by this government an alternative project which should have been executed in the first place and, one which I think will solve the north south traffic problem and at the same time open up a part of Trinidad which stands in great need of development. Namely.
A (toll) highway from Sea lots to Chaguanas and beyond.
A look at a map of Trinidad will demonstrate the obvious advantage this project has over the interchange project. Not least amongst these is the added value for:
(1) Eco tourism in that this whole coast line will be opened up for development.
(2) There is the issue of security. On a recent visit to the Caroni swamp we heard speed boats in the area and were told there was an active drug trade making use of the swamp as a point of entry and /or departure for drug in/out of the country.

To those who might have questions about the impact this project might have on the environment, let me assure you that what I am proposing is a road way built above water so as to minimize the impact on the environment. Imagine with me all traffic heading south using this highway instead of heading east first. Imagine driving on this road way with your kids and Bird watching or stopping along to way to fish in the swamp.

This will not be an easy project to execute. The question what to do with Sea lots? Will have to be first answered. Seeing I am already risking ridicule by making these suggestions, I might as well continue by suggesting the obvious. Convert Sea lot into a facility with all modern convenience for parking, business, recreation and housing accommodations thus providing employment for deserving residents in the following areas:
(1) Securing vehicles and the collection of parking fees which could go towards developing facilities within the community.
(2) Also, proper boots could be built and given out to those so inclined to small business. (3) The area can also be used as a port for the water taxi thus providing jobs for residents of Sea lots.
(4) A new Maxi taxi/Taxi hub from Sea lots to other parts of P.O.S. could be created with residents being given the first option in providing transport from Sealots to other parts of Port of Spain..
Obviously, those residents who cannot be absorbed into this new project should be offered alternative proper accommodations elsewhere. One can say a lot more on this project but for now think about the time that will be saved by motorist on this new road way.

A Government Lacking moral courage cannot attempt this project. A firm commitment to do what is best for this country and a willingness to bring people onboard is required as a prerequisite for the implementation of a project of this nature. Does our government have this courage? Only time will tell.