St Lucy folk say ‘nuisance’ roads now a danger

Residents in St Lucy, particularly in areas like River Bay, Hope Road, and Crab Hill, are voicing their frustration over the dire state of their roads, which they describe as nearly impassable due to years of neglect and ongoing water main replacement projects. The combination of deep potholes, loose gravel, and eroding road edges has turned daily commutes into hazardous journeys, with many comparing the experience to a ‘daily test of endurance.’ Drivers are forced to navigate a precarious path, often zigzagging to avoid damage to their vehicles. The situation worsens after heavy rains, when water-filled potholes disguise their depth, making travel even more treacherous. Limited street lighting in some areas further compounds the problem, especially at night. Long-time resident Mark Toppin described the roads as ‘beyond ridiculous,’ highlighting the safety risks posed by crumbling infrastructure. Residents are now calling for urgent action from authorities, emphasizing that the issue is not merely an inconvenience but a pressing public safety concern. They urge the government to prioritize long-term road maintenance or, at the very least, provide temporary fixes to ensure safer travel. The plight of St Lucy mirrors broader struggles across Barbados, where many smaller communities continue to wait for road repairs while major highways and urban areas receive attention. For the people of St Lucy, the deteriorating roads are disrupting daily life, affecting vehicle maintenance, and posing significant safety risks, making immediate action imperative.