The Ministry of Public Works and Environment advises the motoring public to exercise patience, courtesy, and caution while travelling through the ongoing trenching works on Middle Road near Industrial Park Road in Southampton.
The current works involve the installation of a new water line under Road Traffic Notice (RTN) #5 (as amended). The Ministry is deeply concerned by reports of motorists engaging in verbally abusive and, in some cases, physically confrontational behaviour toward construction workers. Such conduct is unacceptable and poses serious risks to worker safety and public safety.
The Ministry reminds the public that this project, along with the upcoming BELCO underground trenching works under RTN #3, is critical to strengthening and modernising Bermuda’s underground infrastructure and ensuring the long-term reliability of essential services.
Motorists are further advised that Middle Road, from the west to Barnes Corner, does not offer viable alternative routes for eastbound traffic. Consequently, some delays are unavoidable during this period.
For the safety of construction crews and road users alike, motorists are strongly urged to remain in their vehicles, refrain from confrontational behaviour, follow the instructions of traffic controllers and construction personnel, and comply with all traffic signals and signage.
These trenching works are expected to continue for at least one month, during which traffic will be travelling alongside an open trench and active construction operations. Drivers are reminded that unsafe or aggressive behaviour near work sites may result in serious consequences.
The Ministry thanks the public for their cooperation and understanding as these essential infrastructure upgrades are carried out in the national interest.