Water Square braces for traffic changes

FALMOUTH, Trelawny:

AS FALMOUTH prepares for the arrival of its first cruise ship next week, the Trelawny Parish Council says it is making every effort to ensure that the pedestrianisation of Water Square is carried out with minimal inconveniences to the public.

The pedestrianisation of the town square and the establishment of one-way streets throughout the town is aimed at developing a public recreational space, and making the town more friendly to visitors as well as the promotion of a unique shopping experience and the cleaning up of the town centre.

Mayor of Falmouth Collen Gager told The Gleaner on Monday that all efforts were made to alert residents of Falmouth of the test run for the pedestrianisation process. "Thousands of flyers were given out throughout the parish pointing residents to the upcoming changes," said Gager.

"In addition, several community forums were held to sensitise communities about the impending closure of Water Square and the establishment of one-way streets throughout the town of Falmouth." the mayor said.

The mayor who toured sections of Falmouth on Monday, including the temporary site reserved for public transportation, said he understood the concerns expressed by commuters and transport operators about the inconveniences that they were experiencing at the temporary location. He noted that as the test run progresses over the next three weeks, persons would get accustomed to the changes.

"And (people) will appreciate that these changes are necessary in order to prepare the town for the arrival of its first cruise ship on February 17." Gager said.

The mayor said the current transportation arrangements were temporary, noting the parish council and the Port Authority are to establish a permanent bus park along Market Street in Falmouth.

- Ruddy Mathison and Richard Morais