WESTERN BUREAU:

Faced with increased traffic delays due to roadworks being carried out in Montego Bay, organisers are urging patrons attending this year's Air Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival to car-pool.

"I recommend that our patrons try as much as possible to car-pool," said Walter Elmore, executive director for the event.

"There is ample parking space this year, but given the problems we are facing with the roads, we are asking patrons to travel in groups. Also, for those who are staying in hotels, we are asking that you use the shuttle buses as much as possible."

Sections of the Rose Hall main road, which runs adjacent to the festival's venue, is under construction as part of the North Coast Highway project.

The festival's St. James staging kicked off last night at the Half Moon Conference Centre with artistes Chuck Mangione, Maurice Gordon, Robin Banks and Kelly Love Jones.

Despite the impending delays, Mr. Elmore was still quite upbeat about this year's show.

"Everything is in place for tonight's show and (The Aqueduct) venue is coming along very well," he said. "The stage is in, the lights are in and sponsors are doing their tents and putting on finishing touches."