Solutions to Cayman’s traffic problems
Alric Lindsay writes: The one thing we know for sure about the traffic problem in Cayman is that building more lanes is not the solution. This is because multiple lanes simply lead back to a bottleneck. We need to start looking at common-sense ways to reduce traffic. This will also require some discipline and sacrifice on our part. Below are ideas that we may consider.
Improved bus transportation system
We must transform the bus transportation system into a 24 hour, efficient, affordable and reliable network with outstanding customer service. If feasible, we may explore the use of trams powered by electricity or solar. School buses currently in place for public schools should also be used for private schools. This will result in less individual cars on the road in the school zones at peak times. It also encourages students from public and private schools to mix, rather than to segregate.
Carpooling
If students can share a bus, surely the rest of us can consider carpooling. While carpooling may not be a part of our “culture” or something we are accustomed to in Cayman, we must make sacrifices from time to time and leave our cars at home and drive to work with a friend or colleague. This may result in less cars on the road.
Working remotely
During the lockdown, some of the largest employers in Cayman were forced to utilise the internet and other technology to stay in touch with their clients. This involved hundreds of staff members working from home. Some firms have now adopted this remote working option for their employees on a permanent basis. Other large firms and the government should now consider allowing more staff members to work from home, especially where face to face contact with clients is not required for the delivery of services.
Of course, for this to work properly, excellent technology, including software must be in place. This may require an expansion or improvement of existing infrastructure to ensure that there is no disruption in the provision of services here or abroad. Ultimately, working remotely means you don’t have to be on the road, experiencing road rage and getting stuck in traffic.
Staggering work hours
Employers may also consider staggering work hours so that employees have different start times, say, 10am start rather than an 8am start. Working outside peak times may result in less cars being on the road at the same time.
Cycling or walking to work
If you live close to work and you are able to walk or cycle to work, then you should consider doing that periodically. And of course, we need appropriate cycling lanes (not just shared lanes or sharrows) to keep people safe. Increased driver education is also necessary to respect those who are walking or cycling. In my view, where drivers speed while others are cycling or walking, the speeding fines should be increased to three times the normal fine.
Ferries and water taxis
If we want to avoid cars altogether, we can think about the water taxi or ferry systems used in other countries. These could be implemented for use between West Bay and George Town or between other districts. Of course, this must be supported by an excellent bus transportation system as users may need a lift from the water taxi terminal to work.
Restricting car imports or cars per household
If a combination of other methods does not work, a difficult step may need to be taken to limit the total number of vehicles imported and/or restricting the number of vehicles owned by each household. Purchases of new vehicles may also be restricted to long-term residents and citizens.
Other traffic related concerns and steps taken
Traffic is not just a problem on the main roads. Neighbourhoods like Windsor Park and Webster’s Estates have been used as shortcuts for many years during peak times. This, in turn, created a safety issue as cars speed through neighbourhoods while residents are exercising or as children walk to school. This has led to Webster’s Estates putting up a security gate and to other neighbourhoods requesting speed-bumps or traffic cameras or more presence from community beat officers or other police officers.
To do my part, I have written to the National Roads Authority to request speed-bumps and pedestrian crossings in various areas, including in front of Cayman Prep school and St. Ignatius. Unfortunately, I am still waiting for a response. But I cannot really blame it on the NRA because they can only take instructions from the current government leadership. It is the poor leadership by the current government and what appears to be the attitude of those responsible for the area that the safety of our students is not a priority.
After years of silence on this and other issues, I think that it is time for a change. Something better. Someone who is not silent when it really matters.
Category: Polls, Viewpoints & Analysis, Viewpoint & Analysis
