🌳 Activists demand public vote on controversial road route

Sustainable Cayman, a leading environmental advocate group in the Cayman Islands, is urging the government to hold a referendum on the proposed East-West Arterial (EWA) Road extension. The group has voiced concerns over the government's selection of Route B3, which it alleges was a politically motivated decision that could have significant environmental impacts. The group argues that large-scale infrastructure projects should always take into account their wider impact on the environment, economy, and social fabric. 🌍

The EWA project has raised substantial concerns due to its potential impact on the Central Mangrove Wetlands and the congestion problem for commuters from the Eastern Districts. Sustainable Cayman has disputed the government's claim that Route B3 is the "environmentally optimal" choice, stating that the decision lacks essential hydrology and peat depth assessments. The group is calling for a referendum to allow the public to choose between Routes B2 and B3, based on the expert Shortlist Evaluation Report. 🛣️

According to Sustainable Cayman, Route B3 poses a greater threat to the environment than Route B2, which is a slightly shorter, cheaper, and greener choice. The group has warned that the decision will shape the Cayman Islands for generations and has urged the government to reconsider and conduct comprehensive assessments. They have also called for the road to be included in any planned government referendums. 🌳