Reggae Sumfest moves to ease traffic flow at Plantation Cove ahead of staging

Organisers of A Taste of Reggae Sumfest say targeted measures are being implemented to significantly reduce traffic congestion at Plantation Cove, an issue that has long challenged major events at the venue, as anticipation builds for the showcase featuring dancehall icons Vybz Kartel and Mavado on July 18.

Following a multiagency site visit, event organisers, in collaboration with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), outlined a comprehensive traffic-management plan aimed at improving the flow of vehicles and reducing bottlenecks along the main thoroughfares leading to the venue.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr Gary McKenzie, representing the Strategic Operations Department in St Ann, acknowledged that traffic management along the corridor, particularly near the venue’s main entrance, has historically been a challenge.

“The main issue has been managing public order and the flow of traffic along the thoroughfare, especially given the limited entrance space for such a large property. However, with the level of planning now in place, we expect to see a far better outcome,” he said.

Particular attention is being placed on the Priory area, a known bottleneck for motorists travelling from Kingston. Authorities are considering the enforcement of no-stopping zones in that stretch to keep traffic moving.

“We’re looking closely at that area to ensure it is properly managed. It’s not a long stretch, and with the right controls, we can significantly improve the flow,” McKenzie explained.

He also noted that police will not be facilitating escorts for entourages along the main corridor, as this has previously contributed to congestion.

Leemore Palmer, head of security for DownSound Entertainment, producers of Reggae Sumfest, said the strategy is focused on getting patrons off the roadway and into the venue as efficiently as possible.

“High on our list of priorities is how to get patrons off the roadways and into the venue as quickly as we can. That is critical to reducing congestion and ensuring a smoother experience for everyone,” Palmer said.

A key component of the plan is addressing congestion issues historically associated with events at Plantation Cove. Among the measures is the introduction of a two-lane traffic system to facilitate faster ingress, along with clearly designated parking areas to minimise roadside buildup.

Organisers are also taking steps to reduce show-day traffic pressure by ensuring that the majority of production personnel are on site and settled ahead of time, limiting unnecessary movement during peak hours. Additionally, separate access points will be established for production teams, artistes, and their entourages, reducing interference with general patron traffic.

Long-standing concerns around toll plaza delays are also being addressed as part of the wider traffic strategy. Organisers confirmed that discussions are currently underway with toll authorities to improve throughput during peak event hours.

Alternative routes will also be highlighted ahead of the event as police are encouraging patrons to utilise all available thoroughfares to support smoother traffic flow at the toll plaza.

Assistant Commissioner of Police McArthur Sutherland, in charge of Area Two, said efforts are also being made to reconfigure entry points to better accommodate large volumes of vehicles.

“We are looking at how we can pull a large volume of traffic off the roadway and into the venue space swiftly to avoid any buildup,” Sutherland said.

As anticipation builds for the staging, patrons are being encouraged to plan their travel early, utilise designated routes, and follow all traffic directives to support the smooth execution of the plan.

entertainment@gleanerjm.com