Having pocket lanes easier with Davide’s help

THE Cebu City Traffic Operations Management (Citom) welcomed Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III’s helping hand in addressing the traffic problem along Banilad-Talamban road.

Citom executive director Rafael Yap said it will facilitate the establishment of pockets lanes along the road.

“We’re happy that they have indicated they’re willing to help the city. The area has many properties owned by the province that may be used for pocket lanes,” Yap told CDN.

He said the area across Cebu Country Club, J. Panis Street and the road leading to IT Park are among the areas that may be used as pocket lanes.

“With the province’s help, we won’t have to undergo traditional road right-of-way (RROW) acquisition procedures,” Yap added.

The newly formed Bantal Traffic Management Board, chaired by businessman Bunny Pages, has been tasked to negotiate with residential and business establishment owners along Ban-Tal to facilitate RROW acquisition for the establishment of pocket lanes and eventually, for road widening along Ban-Tal.

Pocket lanes were among the suggestions made by stakeholders along Ban-Tal in a dialogue with Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama last week. This after the city implemented a no-left turn policy at all intersections along the eight-kilometer stretch of the Ban-Tal road.

Pocket lanes allow vehicles to divert from the general traffic flow to permit passengers to disembark.

The board is currently negotiating with establishment owners along the area for the putting up of pocket lanes.

The University of San Carlos-Talamban Campus has agreed to move its fence to provide for a wider road.