Talks needed on closing Ariapita Avenue to traffic

Woodbrook residents and business owners have said Port of Spain mayor Joel Martinez did not consult with them on his proposals to pedestrianise Ariapita Avenue and enhance the Lapeyrouse Cemetery.

The mayor told Newsday last Friday his plans for the avenue include banning traffic at certain times, making it accessible to people only.

He also spoke of plans to restore the cemetery and make it a visitor attraction because it holds a lot of Trinidad and Tobago’s history.

Though businesses were happy with the plan to increase foot traffic, residents are asking the mayor to consult with them before these proposals are finalised.

As well, business owners told Newsday the mayor has to put more thought into his plans.

Edwin Gooding Jr, owner of Riley’s Cafe, on the avenue, said the mayor’s idea will create a whole new atmosphere that customers would appreciate, but there are a few things he must consider.

“What about when delivery trucks have to make deliveries to businesses? We need to know when the cut-off time for us to take our last deliveries is. We need to know what the times traffic would be restricted are, and where should our customers with cars park?”

One resident said the mayor shouldn’t focus on increasing foot traffic when businesses are on the brink of closure owing to covid19 restrictions that mean businesses must close by 10 pm.

She said, “I think it's not a good idea, business will lose money and now is not a time to be focusing on a cemetery and restricting traffic.

"Let’s focus on the issues at hand. People have so many bills and while we understand the government must do what it has to do, they can find ways to help businesses survive.”