Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure VROMI Christophe Emmanuel obviously means well with his intention to close the road along Maho Beach and reroute the entrance to Beacon Hill (see Thursday paper).
Government is understandably worried about the recent death of a visitor who tripped and hit her head while experiencing the world-famous jet-blast from departing planes, as well as a possible negative impact on the local tourism economy.
The incident led to criticism that St. Maarten is not taking care of its guests by allowing those involved to hang onto the fence and “float” in the powerful thrust of aircraft engines that knock their feet out from under them. However, there are large and very explicit signs indicating potentially fatal consequences.
Besides, the idea of reopening the old route between Karakter Beach Bar and White Sands Beach Club instead would not only mean relocating now successful businesses to an uncertain future, but possibly also the airport fence that was moved closer to the sea several years ago. The narrow strip of beach remaining there is probably not enough for a two-way street, especially at high tide. What’s more, it’s practically the only undisturbed stretch of Simpson Bay Beach left due to the lack of structures.
Let’s face it; the current setup at Maho Beach has become one of the destination’s biggest attractions that many come to see in safe manner. It’s just a small group of “thrill-seekers” who apparently feel the need to go to the extreme and take such an obvious risk.
There are other measures that could be taken, such as posting a security officer there during the afternoon hours when most flights take off, possibly in cooperation with the private sector, essentially protecting these people from themselves. Some even question that, because one doesn’t see anybody stopping persons who, for example, like to go paragliding or jump out of aircraft with parachutes either.
Nevertheless, practical solutions, including military-style barbed wire or somehow padding the concrete divider and roadside wall should people fall on them, can also be considered before such a far-reaching step as closing the entire road and altering what has proven to be a popular hangout area for residents and tourists alike. With all due respect, that seems a bit drastic.
