Strengthen the foundations of traffic management

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The recent commentary by the CEO of the National Works Agency (NWA) blaming “single-occupant cars” for Kingston’s traffic woes oversimplifies a complex issue. While private car use contributes to congestion, the root causes lie deeper in structural and infrastructural deficiencies. But I do agree that he shared the crux of the problem, he stated that ‘We [NWA] are not a part of the Ministry of Transport so policy prescription, understandably, will come from that ministry but as someone who has interest in the sector’. How can the main agency responsible for the nation’s infrastructure not be under the umbrella of the Ministry of Transport? As someone who has studied road engineering and management, I believe that undue focus on car-ownership alone ignores deeper structural and infrastructural failings that research has shown to be central — and correctable — causes of congestion.

First, the deplorable state of our roads significantly reduces capacity. Potholes, uneven pavements, and exposed manholes force drivers to slow or stop, creating bottlenecks. Intersections such as Molynes Road/Washington Boulevard exemplify this problem, where navigating hazards leads to massive backups.

Second, poorly timed traffic signals worsen delays. When light cycles fail to match traffic demand, intersections clog, and flow becomes erratic—especially during peak hours. Junctions near the Ministry of Agriculture and Weymouth Drive are prime examples.

Third, inadequate pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure forces vulnerable road users into vehicle lanes, disrupting traffic and increasing collision risks.

Fourth, unplanned or poorly scheduled road works compound congestion. Utility companies and subcontractors often carry out projects during peak hours, as seen recently on East Kings House Road. Such practices ignore basic traffic management principles. Scheduling works between 11:00 pm and 4:00 am, with proper lighting, would minimize disruption.

Finally, the absence of reliable, comfortable public transport leaves commuters dependent on private cars. So, I agree with Mr. Hunter, the lack of reliable, comfortable mass public transport plays a central role. Where public transport is unreliable or uncoordinated, residents default to private cars, increasing the number of vehicles on already constrained and degraded roads.Without coordinated planning between NWA and JUTC under a single ministry, mass transit remains inadequate, fueling gridlock.

The solution is not scapegoating single-occupant vehicles but adopting a multi-pronged approach:

Commit to regular, high-quality road maintenance.

Upgrade pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.

Optimize traffic signal timing.

Schedule road works responsibly.

Invest in dependable mass transit systems.

These measures will ease congestion, improve mobility, and create safer, more equitable roads—advancing Vision 2030 and making Kingston a livable city.

RACHELLE MCFARLANE