Kingston, Jamaica — Ahead of the Independence Grand Gala set to mesmerize attendees on Tuesday, August 6, at the National Stadium, authorities have unveiled stringent security and traffic measures to ensure a safe and orderly celebration.
Strict No-Weapons Policy
In a recent release, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) issued a stern reminder that no weapons, including licensed firearms, will be permitted inside the venue. Licensed firearm holders must arrange for secure storage of their firearms, as the Stadium Police Station will not provide safekeeping services. The JCF strongly advises against leaving firearms in vehicles, warning that if a weapon is stolen under these conditions, the owner could face legal consequences.
“This is a dangerous practice, and based on the circumstances, firearm holders may be charged in the event their weapon is stolen from their motor vehicles,” the JCF emphasized.
Entry Protocols and Prohibited Items
All patrons entering the stadium will be subject to thorough searches. Items deemed potential weapons will be confiscated. Additionally, vuvuzelas are explicitly banned from the event.
Traffic Adjustments
To facilitate smooth traffic flow, several changes will come into effect:
Before the Event:
- Midday Transition: Arthur Wint Drive becomes one-way with eastward traffic towards the stadium. Route adjustments involve turning left onto Roosevelt Avenue, right onto Stanton Terrace, right onto Mountain View Avenue, and finally right onto Arthur Wint Drive leading into the car park.
- Vehicles traveling west on Arthur Wint Drive towards Mountain View Avenue must detour at Roosevelt Avenue and Stanton Terrace.
- Local Access: Residents of the Lofts Apartments and Stadium Gardens will have specific routes for entry and exit, with Arthur Wint Drive being eastward only.
Post Event:
- Egress Adjustments: Arthur Wint Drive from gate E4 to Tom Redcam Drive will be westward one-way. Meanwhile, from gate E5, it turns eastward towards Mountain View Avenue. Latham Avenue will shift to a northwest one-way towards Old Hope Road.
- Special routes will be in place for emergency vehicles accessing the Children’s Hospital.
- Temporary Exit Restriction: Residents of Stadium Gardens can exit but not re-enter their community for approximately 45 minutes post-event.
Parking Restrictions:
No parking will be allowed on:
- Roosevelt Avenue
- Arthur Wint Drive
- Latham Avenue
- Stanton Terrace
- Mountain View Avenue
Vehicles in contravention will be towed. Attendees are advised to park off-road and ensure vehicles are oriented to facilitate post-event traffic flow. Specialized parking passes are required before accessing the National Stadium grounds.
Compliance and Safety
The police will be deployed in full force to manage the crowd and maintain order. Participants, whether motorists or pedestrians, are urged to comply with police directives throughout the event.
Culmination
The Grand Gala, marking Jamaica’s Independence, will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display, promising to be a befitting end to a day of national pride and celebration.
Stay safe, follow the guidelines, and enjoy the festivities!
