🚧 Unexpected road closure in George Town leads to traffic mayhem

Edward Street in downtown George Town was unexpectedly closed on Thursday morning, leading to significant traffic disruption. The planning ministry had issued a late-night media release on Wednesday about the closure, but many commuters were caught unawares. The police also issued notices and alerts after 10:00am, informing that the road would be closed until Friday afternoon. The closure was due to well-drilling near the Victoria’s Secret store, as part of the George Town Revitalisation project. 🚧

At around noon, the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) issued a traffic advisory stating that Edward Street, between Main Street and Shedden Road, would remain closed due to ongoing road works. The closure was expected to continue overnight and into the afternoon of 7 June. Traffic diversions were eventually implemented for westbound traffic along Elgin Avenue. The police warned motorists to expect significant delays and advised them to take alternate routes where possible. 🚗

The press release from the planning ministry and the National Roads Authority warned of potential traffic congestion in the coming weeks as the revitalization project enters a new phase. Work has also begun on the Post Office Parking lot, expected to take two weeks, and further closures are expected at the intersection of Edward Street and Shedden Road from 17 June. The ministry urged residents and businesses to stay informed and plan accordingly to minimize disruption. However, Thursday’s disruption was largely due to the lack of information on the plans to close Edward Street. 🚦