Recent rains have caused flooding and damaged unpaved roads north and south of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. With the break in the inclement weather, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is assessing the problem and determining how to address the poor condition of the roads. Repair work has started on the northern road, while repairs for the southern stretch are expected to begin on November 7th. In the meantime, residents are advised to exercise caution when driving on these damaged roads.
The SPTC reported that their crew focuses on specific hot spots and mobilizes resources to initiate repairs. Some of the identified and addressed hot spots on the northern road include the Mara Laguna crossing, Journey’s End crossing, the Matachica stretch, the Costa Blue and Casa Rana areas, the Sapphire stretch, and Bonito’s area. Residents living along these routes have noted that the constant movement of large trucks has exacerbated the already damaged road conditions. They mentioned that driving is unsafe in some sections due to deep holes created by heavy rain and large dump trucks. The residents hope the roads can be fully rehabilitated soon and have requested that motorists avoid traveling on these roads late at night.
The area near the Secret Beach junction has also been identified as needing attention. Tourists use this road when visiting the popular beach. However, flooding and deep potholes have made commuting to this leisure destination on the island longer and more hazardous. Secret Beach’s stakeholders hope that after the rains subside, the road will be adequately refurbished for the upcoming high tourism season.
In the south, the unpaved section of the road from Mahogany Bay onward requires immediate attention. Many areas of the road have eroded, creating deep holes that make driving difficult when heading south. SPTC Councilor Ernesto Bardalez stated that they will address these damaged roads and make them drivable as soon as possible. He noted that the recent rains caused by Tropical Storm Nadine and other unprecedented storms have led to various inconveniences across the island. However, they are committed to restoring both the northern and southern roads.
Until repairs are complete, SPTC advises all motorists to practice caution while driving.
