The city government will soon inaugurate the newly rehabilitated Perfecto-Carantes St., touted as the city’s first ever “living street” project.
City Engineer Edgar Victorio Olpindo said despite the setbacks encountered in the implementation due to the previous project contractor’s default, the project was finally completed with impressive results.
“It is such a great honor to share with you the success of our city in transforming our streets into vibrant public spaces that bring people together and provide safe, accessible, and attractive transportation options,” he said.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony to be spearheaded by city officials led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan will also serve as a venue to appreciate the efforts of other government agencies and private entities in creating a better community for the city.
The living street concept was developed by the city government based on existing laws and proven streetscape designs adopted in line with its thrusts and policies on pedestrianization, complete street, urban redevelopment, and resiliency.
The CEO said the concept was adopted for the redesign and rehabilitation of Perfecto-Carantes St., which for years had served as a service road for both pedestrians and vehicles.
Under the living street concept, “lanes will be shared by both pedestrians and vehicles therefore vehicles can still traverse the area within the winding path introduced in the design ‘calms’ traffic and reduce vehicle speeds, helping reduce crash risk and the severity of collisions.”
“These safety outcomes have a direct impact on people on foot and bicycles, patrons of a sidewalk business, and those behind the wheel.”
The CEO said the project also “outlines a streetscape development that creates a pleasant environment where people can be involved in different social, cultural, and tourism activities and where pedestrians and cyclists will be accorded the highest priority in the hierarchy of road users.”
“In addition, the complete street policy was also implemented as an approach that creates healthier, more equitable communities with health benefits including reduced traffic and fewer traffic collisions, more active living and exercise opportunities, and better air quality for surrounding neighborhoods. It is a street that is safe for all users, regardless of age, ability, income, race, ethnicity, or mode of travel,” the office said.
The implementation of the project began in early 2022 but was halted in December of the same year after the contractor failed to deliver the desired output and accomplish the project as per approved program of work.
It underwent comprehensive assessment, redesign and rebidding and was later resumed by the new contractor until its completion. – Aileen P. Refuerzo
