Police roll out traffic plan for Reggae Sumfest’s St. Ann debut

Police have introduced new traffic, parking and security arrangements ahead of Reggae Sumfest’s debut in St. Ann this weekend. The festival’s move follows decades in Montego Bay and is expected to bring thousands of patrons into the parish.

While the event is being welcomed for the economic opportunities it could provide, concerns have surfaced about road congestion, available parking and the movement of people entering and leaving the venue. Police say several months have been spent preparing for the festival.

The plan includes two additional entrance gates that were not available at the last major show held at the venue. A park-and-ride service will also operate from three locations: Pearly Beach, Seville Great House and the Discovery Bay playfield.

The measures are intended to prevent a repeat of problems experienced during previous entertainment events in St. Ann, when heavy traffic left motorists facing lengthy delays.

Assistant Commissioner Gary McKenzie, head of strategic operations, said officers will be deployed along the roads and will enforce restrictions in locations where stopping and parking have previously contributed to congestion.

Police will keep roundabouts and intersections free of obstructions, while motorists will not be allowed to park or stop in ways that impede traffic. Officers will also act against improper overtaking. McKenzie urged drivers to obey the law, remain in the traffic flow and exercise patience.

St. Ann’s Bay Mayor Michael Belnavis said he was satisfied with the preparations following numerous meetings involving the relevant stakeholders. He said the parking area had been enlarged to hold as many as 30,000 vehicles.

Belnavis also said the location had been designated an entertainment zone by Minister Grange, with the municipal corporation supporting that designation.

Senior Superintendent Carlos Russell, commanding officer for the St. Ann Police Division, said officers will be positioned along the main thoroughfares. Regular patrols will continue throughout communities in the division to protect residents and festival patrons.

With preparations nearing completion, organisers and public officials are aiming to deliver a safe, orderly festival. Stakeholders believe a successful staging could strengthen St. Ann’s prospects of hosting additional major entertainment events.