BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – The demolition of an overpass on Luna Street in La Paz district is necessary to address safety concerns and pave the way for urban development.
Jeck Conlu, head of Iloilo City’s Public Safety and Transportation Management Office (PSTMO), said the demolition is necessary for public safety reasons since the structure even poses a risk to pedestrians using it.
Likewise, the city government noted the overpass becomes a temporary shelter for beggars, hence, can also lead to several issues such as sanitation and security.
Conlu said they will coordinate with the Commission on Audit (COA) for clearance prior to the demolition.
Once demolished, Conlu said the city government will convert the area into a three-lane “pedestrian-friendly zone” conducive for the students and the public.
He said that his office will coordinate with city engineers and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the design of the pedestrian lane equipped with safety railings and traffic personnel.
Conlu also said he will meet with the City Social Welfare and Development Office to discuss the preparation in relocating the homeless family taking shelter at the structure.
Mayor Jerry Treñas on Monday, April 1, agreed to demolish the overpass.
“It would be more practical to take it down since it no longer fulfills its purpose,” said Treñas.
The mayor said they have consulted with OIC City Engineer Salvador Pedregosa for the demolition process and clearance from state auditors.
Although there is perception of overpass demolition as a waste of public funds, but the city government deemed it necessary for urban redevelopment and to address safety concerns./PN
