That the St. Maarten Police Force KPSM is taking a series of safety and traffic measures (see related story) as the high season gets underway will no doubt have a reassuring effect on residents and especially those directly involved in the dominant hospitality industry. A positive visitor experience is indeed crucial during the busy months ahead going forward.
Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten recently announced an initiative for the business community particularly in Philipsburg to financially contribute to the cost of enhanced security, but it’s not clear whether that materialised.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure VROMI, one of the plans is to temporarily close multiple alleyways leading toward Front Street and Back Street to reduce congestion and enhance pedestrian safety. Loitering will also be prohibited around the A.C. Wathey Cruise Port entrance, Captain Hodge’s Wharf and Water Plant Square – areas that regularly accommodate large flows of arriving and departing passengers.
In Simpson Bay and Maho – two of the island’s busiest nightlife and tourism hubs – KPSM will implement heightened security measures, including increased police visibility and proactive enforcement against unsafe driving.
Law enforcement is in any case doing its part, but needs help. People and most-of-all merchants should remain alert to their own surroundings and exercise caution, taking preventive actions where necessary.
No matter how hard they may try, police simply can’t be everywhere at the same time.
