BY GEROME DALIPE IV
NESTLED along the coast of Iloilo City, the Iloilo Sunset Boulevard emerges as an embodiment of urban renewal and community vitality. Stretching seven kilometers from Barangay Tabucan in the Mandurriao district to Barangay Cagbang in Oton, Iloilo, this scenic coastal road is a vibrant, multi-functional space where leisure meets functionality.
The Boulevard – also known as the Iloilo River North Bank Road – is arguably the city’s newest destination. It had a “soft opening” just this June and is expected to be fully open by December.
With its wide lanes dedicated to both vehicular and non-vehicular activities, it invites locals and tourists alike to indulge in a variety of activities. Whether it’s jogging, cycling, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, the boulevard caters to all, while offering mesmerizing views of the Iloilo Strait at sunset — hence its name.
What makes the Sunset Boulevard stand out is its role in urban sustainability. As part of a P1.4-billion initiative, the project aligns with Iloilo City’s larger goals of sustainable development and quality of life enhancement.
Former Senator Franklin Drilon, the project’s principal advocate, emphasized its significance in easing traffic congestion by providing an alternative coastal route, thus enhancing the city’s connectivity and easing the daily commute.
The economic implications of the boulevard are projected to be profound. By increasing accessibility and visibility, it would certainly be a catalyst for business, boosting local enterprises ranging from quaint cafes to bustling retail shops.
Real estate development is on the rise, too, with property values appreciating, thereby attracting further investments into residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors.
This urban development project goes beyond infrastructural enhancement; it embodies a commitment to beautify and revitalize the cityscape. Through strategic landscaping and thoughtful design, the Iloilo Sunset Boulevard is set to transform the city’s waterfront into a picturesque and lively part of the city that enhances the community’s social and economic fabric.
As the sun sets over the Iloilo Strait, the boulevard stands as a testament to the city’s forward-thinking approach to urban planning — where development harmonizes with leisure, sustainability, and economic growth, paving the way for a brighter, more vibrant Iloilo./PN
