Lacroes urges govt to address traffic congestion before start of School Year

GREAT BAY--With the new academic year and high tourism season approaching, Member of Parliament (MP) Sjamir A. Lacroes is calling on the government to implement concrete measures to alleviate the growing traffic congestion across St. Maarten, particularly in areas such as Cul-de-Sac, Airport Road, Simpson Bay, and Cole Bay.

Lacroes pointed to the daily delays experienced by commuters, who often spend more than an hour traveling a few kilometers. He emphasized that the increasing number of vehicles, aging cars, and school buses on narrow roads are contributing to a worsening gridlock that demands immediate attention.

Reiterating concerns raised in a previous opinion article, the MP stressed the need for swift and targeted action, particularly in high-traffic zones and near school areas. He proposed a number of solutions including:

• Increased deployment of traffic enforcement officers, especially the VKS and TEATT inspection teams, during peak hours

• Strategic restrictions on side roads connecting to L.B. Scott Road using retractable bollards

• Creation of a large roundabout in the Cul-de-Sac area to improve traffic flow

• Introduction of “Ritsen” (a merging method used in international traffic systems) in local regulations

• Staggered school start times to reduce peak congestion

Lacroes also questioned the status of the new roadway link between Weymouth Hill and Dutch Quarter, which could ease pressure on existing corridors.

In addressing long-term traffic solutions, the MP urged government to consider stricter vehicle regulations. He advocated for prohibiting the registration or licensing of cars older than ten years, suggesting that owners of such vehicles receive a subsidy upon sale. The aim, he noted, would be to gradually reduce the number of high-emission, unsafe vehicles on the road.

He also called for the finalization of updated vehicle inspection standards, with a focus on emissions, mechanical safety, and roadworthiness. These changes, he argued, are essential for public health and sustainable urban planning.

Lacroes extended thanks to the Minister of Justice, Nathalie Tackling, and the Police Force of St. Maarten (KPSM) for recent efforts to address illegal scooters. He reaffirmed his commitment to working with government ministries, civil society, and transport experts to deliver a traffic management plan that ensures safer, faster, and more efficient mobility for all.

He concluded by warning that without decisive action, traffic issues will continue to disrupt daily life and undermine the island’s tourism-dependent economy.

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