San Pedro Traffic Department

San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, the fastest-growing municipality in Belize, is grappling with a critical issue - traffic congestion and the flow of large vehicles through its downtown area. Mayor Gualberto' Wally' Nuñez has stressed the situation's urgency, affirming that his administration is actively working towards solutions to this longstanding concern and ensuring all residents' safety.

As San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye continues to develop rapidly, the central issue of traffic congestion continues without a proper solution. Many stakeholders on the island have expressed their concerns about this issue, stating that it is out of control and detracting from the appeal that attracts tourists to Ambergris Caye. Although local authorities have been asked for solutions, their responses have not reassured many islanders.

The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is cracking down on vehicular importation to the island without the required clearance or permits. This has led to dozens of golf carts being removed from the island after owners failed to produce the necessary permits. Failure to adhere to this regulation may result in a fine, which, as per a recent resolution passed, increased from $100 to $2,500 per violation, and the illegal vehicle will be removed from the island.

Island resident and bartender Danny Sosa, 23, remains hospitalized after he was knocked down by a golf cart driven by an alleged intoxicated driver. Sosa's left leg was severely injured and required two surgeries. As he remains hospitalized at the Orange Walk Sugar City Medical Centre, the family is reaching out to the public for help with medical expenses. There will be a fundraising Bar-B-Que on Sunday, May 19th, on Pescador Drive in downtown San Pedro, and anyone able to make a monetary donation can do so to the account under the name of Josseline Carolina Fuentes, Belize Bank, 237446010160000. The family can also be contacted at the phone number 626-0620.

The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is taking a proactive stance by enforcing restrictions on golf cart rentals, urging them to park their vehicles in their respective garages rather than in public spaces. This measure, while rental operators say it causes some inconvenience, is ultimately aimed at relieving downtown congestion and ensuring ample parking space for private golf cart owners and tourists. The SPTC emphasized that trade licenses clearly state that golf cart companies must operate within their premises and, therefore, should not use public spaces for parking.

The San Pedro Traffic Department plans to enforce Chapter 230, sections 74-80, with legal stipulations for drivers under the influence of alcohol. With a breathalyzer, traffic wardens can detect if a driver is intoxicated. The enforcement of these regulations comes after an increase in traffic incidents involving drunk driving.

Following a nearly tragic incident involving a large dump truck and a man on a bicycle, an online petition to better monitor or possibly stop the flow of large vehicles in downtown San Pedro was launched. The accident happened on Thursday, April 18th, when the individual was reportedly pinned to a utility post when a huge truck tried to make a right turn at the end of Angel Coral Street. Passersby alerted the cyclist just in time. Medical personnel assisted the bicyclist, who was treated for minor injuries. However, this incident fueled rising concerns from islanders who believe urgent action is necessary to prevent a potential tragedy. As a result, resident Carina Paz created an online petition with over a thousand signatures by Wednesday, April 24th.

Drinking and driving in Belize is illegal, and if you rent a golf cart, having a designated driver is recommended while enjoying the San Pedro nightlife with some cocktails. Both the San Pedro Traffic Department and emergency responders have stated that the number of incidents involving drunk driving is on the rise.