IN response to the increase in business and economic activity within the northern community, authorities are mobilising resources to effectively manage community affairs, security, and traffic management.Â
Kenson Casimir, the Parliamentary Representative (MP) for Gros Islet, recently provided reporters with a firm update on the construction of a “state-of-the-art” Northern Divisional Headquarters, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing local traffic management.
Casimir stated unequivocally that the community is a hub of bustling commercial activities, exemplified by the popular Friday Night street party. He said that this event, which began 20 years ago, has grown significantly, now extending to the waterfront area.
“We are actively engaging with police on traffic management strategies and recognise their diligent efforts over the past year to ensure the safety of attendees at Friday Night events,” he asserted during a media briefing.
To tackle the challenges arising from increased activity, Casimir made it clear that the government is committed to establishing a Northern Divisional Headquarters that will surpass the capabilities of a traditional police station.
He emphasized, “With this headquarters, traffic management will be a key focus of policing in Gros Islet.”
He confirmed that the facility will incorporate various specialized departments to address traffic, homicides, and other critical issues.
“Upon completion, we will have a comprehensive traffic management plan in place, tailored to the needs of Gros Islet,” he explained.
In addition to traffic management strategies, the Gros Islet MP revealed plans for a designated “proper bus area” for mini-bus operators to conduct their business effectively.
“We are in discussions to determine the best location for this, and while we haven’t finalized it yet, we are actively collaborating with stakeholders and law enforcement as more vendors emerge at these events,” he said.
He acknowledged the influx of bars and small restaurants added by homeowners to accommodate the growing number of visitors to the community.
“While we support entrepreneurship, we must strike a balance between traffic management, smooth community flow, and the safety of all visitors, especially during the Friday Night event,” he stated decisively.
He pointed to an increase in the number of people involved in enterprise and reiterated the urgency of establishing a traffic department within the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force through the new Divisional Headquarters.
“We will implement a robust bus plan to tackle traffic management in Gros Islet,” he assured.
Regarding the progress of the Northern Divisional Headquarters, he confidently reported, “The construction is proceeding excellently, and I anticipate that we will soon open at least one section of the headquarters while the remaining areas are finalised.”
This will be “no ordinary police station,” he declared.
The extensive, multi-functional building will feature courts, holding cells, and specialized departments, designed to accommodate the growing population in the northern region.
“Comfort for our officers has been a priority, with comfortable dormitories integrated into the design,” he added.
In conclusion, he remarked, “We are committed to providing our police force with a modern and solid base after too long without proper facilities. We expect to complete this project by the end of this year or early next year, with a section of the headquarters ready for use very soon.”