Continuous flooding emphasizes the need for proper drainage on new streets

In San Pedro Town, recent efforts have been focused on addressing significant drainage issues and improving road conditions, which have been worsened by flooding from Tropical Storm Sara. Under the leadership of Mayor Gualberto “Wally” Nuñez and Councilor Ernesto Bardalez, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is undertaking a multi-phase initiative to enhance drainage systems and pave roads across the island. Several neighborhoods, including San Pablo, DFC, and Escalante Marina Drive, have already experienced progress due to the ongoing road construction project. However, the lack of a proper drainage system on the newly paved roads continues to result in flooding in these neighborhoods, causing considerable discomfort for the residents.
The flooding caused by Tropical Storm Sara has heightened the need for effective drainage solutions. The heavy rains from the storm overwhelmed the existing inadequate drainage systems, leading to significant flooding in low-lying areas. “We have plans to initiate a major drainage project, which has been our goal from the beginning, starting with the DFC area,” Bardalez emphasized, reaffirming the council’s commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable locations.
“The first phase is complete, and the second phase is now focused on drainage,” Councilor Bardalez stated, highlighting the importance of community involvement in these projects. The initial phase was crucial as it established the groundwork for the next stages, which will concentrate on improving drainage systems.
The council plans to install new culverts to improve water flow and upgrade the existing drainage systems to address ongoing issues. “We are tentatively looking at starting the drainage project in late January, and we hope to bring it to fruition by then,” Bardalez stated, emphasizing that these efforts are being carried out systematically. With the rainy season approaching, this proactive approach aims to minimize the risk of flooding.
These infrastructure improvements will significantly impact the community. Residents have expressed frustration over flooding and poor traffic conditions, especially during heavy rain. In response to this feedback, the council has committed to continuously assessing drainage needs with input from the community.
As SPTC works to improve its infrastructure, it faces other challenges related to increasing traffic and parking issues due to a booming tourism sector. Additionally, the council is implementing speed bumps to enhance road safety during this transition period.
Residents are encouraged to exercise caution in areas with flooding or street damage. Floodwater can pose health risks due to potential contaminants such as open sewage, refrigerants, oils, and more. The SPTC’s proactive strategy creates a safer and more efficient environment for residents and visitors.