THE introduction of parking meters in Georgetown has been met with differing emotions. The most vocal critics, who may be the minority, have overtaken the airwaves and social media. What we have not heard to date, are the thousands of Guyanese who have expressed their approval and support for the project, be it in their homes, among friends, or by utilising the paid parking system. Prior to the introduction of this system, the city streets were in perpetual chaos, with drivers parking with utter disregard for the parking laws and bylaws. The Guyana Police Force seemed utterly incapable, or probably exasperated by their efforts to control or manage the traffic situation in Georgetown. Most businesses park trucks, cars, canters etc, in front of their properties, sometimes for days on end, depriving persons desirous of doing business in the city, from doing so efficiently. This has affected many Guyanese, who see the parking meters as a sustainable solution to these problems. Many persons can attest to the fact that if, for instance, they have to pay a bill at Courts, one would have to circle the block about four times, thereby utilising much-needed gasoline and time. Since the meters have been installed, we, the silent majority, have been able to commute through downtown Georgetown with ease, thereby executing our daily activities efficiently, with ease, and without fear of our vehicles being broken into.
The silent majority wishes to express thanks to Smart City Solutions and the many young city youths (who some want to see return to the unemployment line), for bringing much-needed relief to those of us who now enjoy driving in Georgetown, and an end to the lawlessness that became the norm for more than two decades.
Regards
Kerrancia Griffith