Marlon Vickerman, Gleaner Writer

A closer view of the breakaway on the Borobridge main road in St. Ann. - Photos by Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

WHAT'S NOT WORKING?

The Borobridge main road in Borobridge, St. Ann, has a huge breakaway that gravely worries residents and motorists alike. Residents say that since the breakaway occurred in the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan in 2004, little has been done by the authorities to correct it.

SYNOPSIS OF THE SITUATION

For those who are not familiar with the Borobridge main road, speeding is not an option. And, if you are familiar with it, 'proceed with caution' is a warning that you should never take too lightly, as according to residents, the dangerous breakaway is no respector of persons, because it has gobbled up frequent travellers and newcomers alike.

Denroy Gayle, who has been living in the area for 20 years, said the breakaway is a clear and present danger. "Is like an accident zone ... one driver can just a mind him business and a come up and the other just a try swing from the breakaway on him way down and slam into him," said Gayle.

WHO'S RESPONSIBLE?

The National Works Agency (NWA).

WHAT'S THE STATUS?

The status of the situation is unknown at this point. Colin Morrison, senior communications manager at the NWA, said he would contact the executive agency's parish manager for St. Ann and provide our news team with an update. That update has not yet been received.

CONCLUSION:

I am beginning to believe that the NWA is yet to grasp the concept of danger. Allowing breakaways of this nature to remain for so long is leading me to believe that the works agency, which has responsibility for the nation's network of main roads, is either incompetent or inconsiderate.

It is striking to hear residents complain that after two years and several near fatal accidents, no substantial work has been done by the NWA.

To add insult to the multiple injuries already caused by the breakaway, the powers that be at the state agency have not seen it fit to inform the residents about when it will be repaired. For a hazard as this to remain unresolved for such a long time is unacceptable.

Left: This truck driver steers away from the breakaway at Borobridge in St. Ann. Residents say this has become an active accident spot since the breakaway occurred in 2004 and the problem remains unaddressed.   Right: This sign warns motorists of the deadly road breakaway. Residents say regardless of this caution several motorists have fallen prey to the ditch.