Tenesha Thomas, Gleaner WriterTRANSPORT AND Works Minister Robert Pickersgsill says starting today, several traffic changes will be implemented in Half-Way Tree as part of efforts to reduce traffic congestion.
Speaking at a press briefing yesterday Mr. Pickersgill said, among other things, Closed Circuit Television cameras would be placed at designated areas to monitor traffic flows.
According to Mr. Pickersgill, the direction of traffic flow along North Odeon Avenue will be reversed and the south side lane along North Odeon Avenue will be converted into a bus bay.
He said in addition to relocating some bus stops, the Jamaican Urban Transit Company, the National Transport Cooperative Society as well as rural buses will also be reassigned to bus bays.
Mr. Pickersgill said the exclusive bus lanes along Half-Way Tree Road would now accommodate regular traffic, while motorists who now use North Odeon to get on to Constant Spring Road will, instead, use Derrymore Road.
"The changes will result in noticeable reduction in congestion in Half-Way Tree square, improved pedestrian safety and reduction in fuel consumption", contended Mr. Pickersgill.
The project, which will cost $6.9 million, is expected to be completed by December 4.
