Stakeholder consultations held ahead of bumper cruise season.

The upcoming 2023/2024 Winter Tourist Season is expected to be a record-breaker, and Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez is taking action to ensure a smooth traffic flow in St. John’s.

The Minister has begun engaging with tourism partners to address the potential traffic congestion caused by the influx of visitors during heavy cruise ship days.

Recently, the Minister met with members of the St. John’s Taxi Association and the traffic department of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda to develop a strategy for the free traffic flow through the city.

With approximately 31 days set to see six or more ships docking and a significant increase in homeporting passengers forecasted to reach 25,000 this season compared to 2,500 last year, it is crucial to ensure that visitors and residents have access to free-flowing routes.

The Traffic Department of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has expressed its commitment to supporting tour operators and taxi drivers, enhancing traffic control, and ensuring the smooth flow of transportation services in the heart of St. John’s.

Inspector Russel of the Traffic Department has announced that officers will actively control the flow of traffic at critical intersections of Market and St. Mary’s Street and Market and Long Street.

This proactive approach will streamline the movement of taxis and tour buses and make it easier for them to exit St. John’s and embark on their scheduled tours.

On homeporting days, additional traffic management measures will be implemented, with sections of Church Street and Lower New Gate Street temporarily cordoned off to ensure the efficient flow of traffic, both for taxis entering and exiting the cruise port.

This tailored approach will alleviate congestion and improve accessibility for visitors disembarking from cruise ships, aiming to enhance their experience and provide them with a seamless transition into their tours.

Overall, the government’s commitment to addressing the potential traffic congestion during the upcoming tourist season demonstrates their dedication to ensuring that both tourists and residents can enjoy a smooth and stress-free experience in St. John’s.