Traffic changes have been announced for three major towns in St. Ann during the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

The towns affected are Ocho Rios, St. Ann’s Bay, and Brown’s Town.

Mayor of St. Ann’s Bay, Michael Belnavis, says the changes are aimed at facilitating the smooth flow of pedestrian movement in the town centres.

Mr. Belnavis explains that the adjustments are also intended to accommodate vendors and ensure the smooth flow of traffic on the outskirts of the town centres during the busy holiday period.

He added that arrangements have been made for motorists and taxi operators to utilize designated parking lots and transportation centres to avoid parking along roadways.

Additionally, commuters in St. Mary will experience traffic changes in the town of Port Maria during the Christmas season, as part of efforts to ensure the free flow of traffic in the town centre.

The changes are scheduled for December 23 to 24 and December 30 to 31.

Chief Executive Officer of the Municipal Corporation, Ethlyn Douglas, said the adjustments aim to alleviate congestion by diverting some traffic away from the parish capital.

Cox Street remains closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic due to a collapsed section.

In the meantime, Ms. Douglas noted that a busy season is anticipated based on the high number of persons seeking temporary vending licences.

She said that vendors will be directed to the Port Maria Market, provided there is adequate space especially for those visiting during the period.

“If there is any overflow, there are designated spaces within the town to allow them to vend,” she added.

Meanwhile, the National Works Agency (NWA) has implemented a series of traffic changes in Christiana, Manchester, and Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth.

The changes which took effect yesterday will remain in place until Monday, January 6.

The NWA stated that these changes are part of its traffic management efforts to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow in these towns during the holiday period.