Cebu BRT project on track–DOTr exec
By Lorenz S. Marasigan
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced on Thursday that the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is on track for its first phase of implementation in end-2021.
Currently, the project is now on its final design and implementation stages, both of which are meant ensure the “reliability of service, better connectivity, and enhanced ease of movement” in Cebu. The transportation agency tapped Egis International to review the technical feasibility and sounds of the design for the Cebu BRT.
Transportation Undersecretary for Road Transport Mark de Leon said the design plan for the Cebu BRT is an “improved version of the initial project design” approved in 2014 by the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda).
The improvements made, he added, are still within the said approved conceptual plan, and with foremost consideration for the improved mobility and connectivity of the people of Cebu.
“No changes were made on the alignment of the Cebu BRT. It was, in no way, shortened. In fact, to this day, the plan calls for a route of 23 kilometers. Simply put, design considerations are not confined to present demands, but factors in future infrastructure development, expansions and extensions,” he explained.
The project, however, was divided into three phases.
“The rationale for this segmentation is in line with the policy of partial operability instituted by Secretary Arthur P. Tugade, which aims to carry out infrastructure projects in phases to allow for faster implementation and, therefore, immediately bring a considerable degree of operable service and benefit to the public without them having to wait for the full completion of the project which, in the case of the Cebu BRT, extends beyond the Duterte administration,” de Leon added.
The first phase, which runs from Cebu South Bus Terminal to the Capitol via Osmeña Boulevard, is expected to be up and running by December 2021. Phases 2 and 3 will extend the dedicated BRT lanes to Bulacao and SRP in the south, and Talamban in the north.
The three-year gap was allocated for the acquisition of right of way. The whole facility will be opened in 2025.
Source: Business Mirror