Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my concern about the upcoming road closure announced by VROMI [Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure – Ed.] at the intersection at Bishop Hill Road and Hulda Richardson Road. According to the announcement, “Oyster Pond residents will have one-lane access until asphalt pouring is complete. Afterward, access will be via the Marriott Hotel and French Oyster Pond.”
For those who are unaware, the road near the Marriott Hotel, from Dawn Beach Estates to the Marriott, is virtually impassable. It is filled with potholes (craters might be a more accurate term). At night, it is particularly hazardous because there is little, if any, lighting and the road obstacles are hard to see. It is largely deserted, especially at night, making it the perfect spot for criminals to prey on drivers who must use that road.
Similarly, the road through French Oyster Pond can only be accessed from the Dutch side by going from the Belvedere Roundabout, through French Quarter, turning right on Rue de Coralita, proceeding past Baie Lucas, into French Oyster Pond. Again, the road is often deserted, poorly lit, and would not be a route I would suggest for tourists, particularly those visiting for the first time.
VROMI’s plan would essentially hold the residents and guests staying at Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Princess Heights, the Marriott and the countless private villas in the area hostage. Should an emergency arise, and an ambulance or fire truck is needed in the area, better access would be absolutely critical.
Having lived in St. Maarten off and on for 25 years, I know that the state of our roads is unsatisfactory. I applaud VROMI for the work they are doing to see that the roads are improved. I would ask VROMI to reconsider whether this work could be completed after season and whether some access to the intersection could be maintained. If these are not viable options, I would suggest that some form of temporary lighting be installed on the road leading to the Marriott to facilitate traffic through that route.
Dina L. Abby
