Dear Editor,
The National Park has become a hive of activities especially in the afternoon between 4:30 and 6:30 pm. Numerous persons converge on this public facility in search of recreational outlets. Indeed, it is heartening to see the youngsters engaged in meaningful afterschool activities during this period.
I write however to shed light on a looming problem and the emergence of a very dangerous situation. The number of cars being driven to the National Park has increased remarkedly.
During the hours noted above, the car park on the Carifesta Avenue side of the National Park is generally overwhelmed. This has created a worsening situation where persons are forced to park their vehicles on both sides of Thomas Road. The consequent narrowing of the road has now created a major hazard for everyone who traverses the road and especially the dozens of youngsters who crisscross the road repeatedly (I gather that there have been a few near misses!).Then there is the convergence of cars and motorcycles at the main entrance as persons drop off and pick up relatives and friends. This creates an unnecessary back up of traffic. The number of cars along the poorly lit road also presents a golden opportunity for thieves.
I wish therefore to present a possible solution to this emerging danger. The vast expanse of land to the South of the National Park which is bordered by Albert Street and Thomas Road (which I presume is owned by government) could be upgraded and used to provide a paid public car park. The land is rarely used. Over the past year or two I have noted one group of footballers engaged in a training session. The land however is vast enough to accommodate a full sized football field as well as an area for parking. Let there be a no-parking zone along Thomas Road during the critical hours. Not only would this provide meaningful employment for persons who will manage the facility, but also lessen the aforementioned dangers.
I trust that the authorities will consider this proposal. Our tendency in this country is to be reactive rather than proactive. It is too late to save the window of my vehicle that was smashed Wednesday night by hoodlums in search of valuables; let’s hope it is not too late to save a life lost to the very conditions as described.
Yours faithfully,
John O. Campbell