A month ago, we told you how health and safety advocates have been pushing for a change the Carnival route. That's because every year, the crowds block road access to the country's largest hospital and emergency room - and access to both major highways.
It's a major proposed change to one of the main events of the September Celebrations, and so, the September Celebrations Commission is managing it carefully.
This evening, a few carnival bands went out to test one possible new route to see if it is a change they can work with, and our news team was out there.
Here's what City Councillor Phillip Willoughby had to say about this test run:
Phillip Willoughby, City Counselor
"The Carnival Association executive and the carnival band leaders - we had a meeting, several of the September Celebration Commission members were at this meeting where the carnival is concern. We look at 3 proposed routes. This route that we took which is Caesar Ridge in to Central American Boulevard, we go contrary to the flow of traffic, we take a right into Vernon Street, left into BelChina. As you may know that the route up to that point the turns were quite easy for a 40 foot container with a tow head. We then came into Douglas Jones, the turn into Plaza was quite easy unimpeded, the turn into Baymen Avenue likewise was smooth. We drove along Baymen Avenue into Princess Margaret Drive, again the turns were all smooth. So I believe if all holds well that is quite possible the route that may be selected."
Sandra Mahler, President - Belize Carnival Assoc.
"What we just finish doing was a test to see if the vehicles will be able turn the curves etc., and some of the band leaders came out and we what we saw we are pleased because the truck can make the curve. So, coming out and just doing the route, I think it's a good thing for us to make sure that if this route is selected, we have gone ahead and done the route and we know that it can work."
Willoughby made the point that this is only 1 of 3 routes that can be chosen for the Carnival. It needs final approval, but so far, it appears to be the best choice.
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