ACP GARY MCKENZIE OUTLINES ROAD SAFETY AND TRAFFIC PLANS AHEAD OF A DEMANDING YULETIDE SEASON
In a recent interview, Assistant Commissioner of Police Gary McKenzie offered a clear and measured assessment of what Jamaicans can expect on the nation’s roads this Yuletide season. Although the country is still navigating the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, he believes the weeks ahead will be marked by intense movement and renewed energy as communities rebuild and families reconnect.
According to ACP McKenzie, the police have already begun preparing for the anticipated increase in activity. A major part of this preparation involves close coordination with municipal authorities to maintain order in public spaces. Together, the agencies will work to discourage the use of unauthorised areas while clearly outlining restricted zones and accessible routes. These steps, he explained, are essential to keeping traffic flowing smoothly and ensuring that both motorists and pedestrians can move about safely.
The island’s ongoing relief efforts have also reshaped daily travel patterns. As Jamaicans support relatives and friends affected by the hurricane—and as members of the diaspora return home to assist—the volume of traffic has surged. This has resulted in heightened activity across the eastern side of the island, where many recovery operations remain concentrated.
Nevertheless, the west is gradually regaining momentum. With electricity being restored to several towns and relief supplies moving steadily through airports and ports, the region is showing early signs of normalcy. These developments have contributed to the overall increase in movement along Jamaica’s major roadways, creating an environment that feels both hopeful and demanding.
ACP McKenzie noted that highways, town centres, and commercial corridors are once again bustling as businesses reopen and residents take steps toward stability. Cruise ship arrivals and growing visitor interest in destinations such as Montego Bay, St. James, Falmouth, and Ocho Rios are also contributing to the heightened activity. Many travellers, he said, are eager to witness the island’s recovery firsthand—an interest that is influencing traffic patterns.
To help manage what is expected to be one of the busiest holiday periods, the police will be implementing targeted traffic control measures. Among these are temporary one-way systems designed to ease congestion in areas where heavy flow is anticipated. McKenzie emphasized that these adjustments aim to improve safety and efficiency, not inconvenience the public.
As the festive season approaches, he also reminded Jamaicans to secure the necessary permits for events and commercial activities, encouraging early submissions to avoid last-minute delays.
With holiday festivities typically bringing increased social activity, ACP McKenzie renewed his call for responsible behaviour on the roads. He highlighted the importance of appointing a designated driver whenever alcohol is involved—a message the police consistently champion. He further urged motorists to remain vigilant, particularly around children and other pedestrians, who will be out in greater numbers during the season. Those who disregard the road traffic laws, he warned, will face prosecution, as the police remain steadfast in their commitment to public safety.
ACP McKenzie also highlighted the importance of personal security beyond road usage. He advised citizens to be cautious while going about their daily routines and, where possible, conduct key activities during daylight hours. However, if tasks must be done at night, he recommended choosing secure locations and staying close to individuals who can offer support.
He further encouraged the public to avoid carrying large sums of cash, withdraw only what is necessary, and use debit or credit cards where possible. Valuables should not be exposed, and individuals are urged not to discuss plans to visit financial institutions in public spaces. Additionally, he reminded citizens to verify locations before attending any engagement and to take their personal safety and security seriously, noting that it is a crucial part of everyday life.
In closing, ACP McKenzie expressed confidence that, with cooperation from the public, Jamaica can successfully navigate both its recovery efforts and the demands of the festive season. The police, he assured, will remain fully engaged—supporting communities, guiding movement, and safeguarding the nation throughout this period of renewal and celebration.
