Accidents & Disasters
Danny Sosa hospitalized after hit and run traffic accident; assistance needed to cover medical bills
Island resident and bartender Danny Sosa, 23, remains hospitalized after he was knocked down by a golf cart driven by an alleged intoxicated driver. Sosa's left leg was severely injured and required two surgeries. As he remains hospitalized at the Orange Walk Sugar City Medical Centre, the family is reaching out to the public for help with medical expenses. There will be a fundraising Bar-B-Que on Sunday, May 19th, on Pescador Drive in downtown San Pedro, and anyone able to make a monetary donation can do so to the account under the name of Josseline Carolina Fuentes, Belize Bank, 237446010160000. The family can also be contacted at the phone number 626-0620.
Traffic
Golf cart rentals receive notice not to use public spaces for parking
The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is taking a proactive stance by enforcing restrictions on golf cart rentals, urging them to park their vehicles in their respective garages rather than in public spaces. This measure, while rental operators say it causes some inconvenience, is ultimately aimed at relieving downtown congestion and ensuring ample parking space for private golf cart owners and tourists. The SPTC emphasized that trade licenses clearly state that golf cart companies must operate within their premises and, therefore, should not use public spaces for parking.
Traffic
SPTC Traffic Department to use breathalyzer tests
The San Pedro Traffic Department plans to enforce Chapter 230, sections 74-80, with legal stipulations for drivers under the influence of alcohol. With a breathalyzer, traffic wardens can detect if a driver is intoxicated. The enforcement of these regulations comes after an increase in traffic incidents involving drunk driving.
Traffic
Drunk driving accidents are a growing problem
Drinking and driving in Belize is illegal, and if you rent a golf cart, having a designated driver is recommended while enjoying the San Pedro nightlife with some cocktails. Both the San Pedro Traffic Department and emergency responders have stated that the number of incidents involving drunk driving is on the rise.
Local News
Discussions held for a possible electric vehicle system on Ambergris Caye
A meeting was held in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, on Thursday, April 11th, at the Mahogany Bay Village conference room in San Pedro Town to discuss the possibility of transitioning to electric vehicles in the transport sector. This potential project aims to switch towards clean, renewable energy to benefit the islanders and the fragile marine ecosystem surrounding La Isla Bonita.
Traffic
San Pedro Traffic Wardens Undergo Training
On Thursday, March 21st, the San Pedro Traffic Department participated in a training program to improve their knowledge of traffic laws, safety, and law enforcement. The training was organized in line with the Department of Transport's mission to develop, promote, and regulate a modern and efficient transportation sector through effective traffic management, human resource development, and community participation, focusing on public safety.
Traffic
Road works in the San Juan Area to resume soon: SPTC asks for continued patience with traffic detours
For the past few weeks, motorists driving north of the town core and in the San Juan area have been experiencing increased detours. The San Pedro Traffic Department puts these detours in place to reroute traffic away from ongoing road construction in the area and control traffic flow. However, many residents claim that these detours are causing unnecessary congestion and have questioned the time frame of their implementation.
Traffic
Parking meter system for Barrier Reef Drive still underway
This year, the project to install parking meters on Barrier Reef Drive is expected to happen. Newly elected Mayor Gualberto ‘Wally’ Nuñez said on Tuesday, March 12th, that the project is still underway and soon parking at this busy street will come with a price. The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has been working on this project since March 2023 to alleviate the traffic congestion in the downtown area.
Community and Society
Local Government reminds the public that Electric Scooters require a License
The San Pedro Town Council encourages the public to use green technology, keeping in mind that all motorized vehicles, including electric scooters, must be licensed, and registered at the Traffic Department, and the driver must hold a valid driver’s license from the Traffic Department. In addition, the Transport Department advises all owners of electric scooters (motorcycles) or people interested in using these electric bikes that it is crucial to abide by all driving laws before hitting the road.
Community and Society
Island residents call for stricter traffic enforcement
Traffic congestion in San Pedro Town is a significant concern for the island's residents. There has been an increase in vehicular activity in the downtown area, threatening pedestrians, especially students. As a result, the San Pedro Traffic Department has implemented various strategies to manage the congestion during certain hours of the day.
Community and Society
New regulations by SPTC on golf cart rentals causing mixed reactions
For the past years, the issue of traffic congestion in the downtown area of San Pedro has been a constant challenge to tackle. The cause has been attributed to congestion in specific areas, such as the local airport and water taxi terminals. As such, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is implementing restrictions for golf cart rentals at these ports of entry, prohibiting them from parking, loading, unloading, and soliciting business. These restrictions did not sit well with some stakeholders, who felt targeted, describing these as unfair and harmful for their companies. A call was also made to reconsider part of the regulation and further investigate the issue of taxi drivers taking up street space and overcharging.
