Technical working group names City’s BRT system ‘Trans Cebu’

THE technical working group (TWG) announces Trans Cebu as the next transportation system in the main thoroughfares of Cebu City.

This is the name that the Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) system TWG has decided on, based on several focus group discussions in the 14 barangays that will be covered by the system.

The TWG met yesterday for their second to the last meeting before the feasibility study is wrapped up and presented.

Colin Brader of the Integrated Transport Planning, the consultancy firm of Cebu City’s BRT system, and Cebu City Traffic Operations Management (Citom) executive director Rafael Yap said Trans Cebu pertains to “forward thinking.”

The logo is predominantly green with the “C” of Cebu decorated with the rays of the sun.

“This represents the weather and sunny disposition of Cebuanos,” said Yap.

According to the TWG, the BRT will be managed by a joint venture of the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and the Cebu City Government.

DOTC is the main line agency handling the project and processing the loan with World Bank, specifically under the Clean Technology Fund; and L’Agence Francaise de Developpement.

Brader said the buses, which are larger than regular buses passing through Cebu at 13.7 meters, have a capacity to transport 100 people at one time. It will limit greenhouse gas emission through the use of diesel that goes through engine processing that does not emit soot.

While the BRT is managed by government, the franchises will be through public-private partnership.

Brader is hoping that through this system, displacement of jeepney drivers and operators will be limited because operators can form a cooperative to apply for a franchise to operate the BRT system.

Terminals will also be operated by private entities.

Jeepneys can still operate in alternative routes and jeepney drivers can turn to
rental or passenger vans. There will also be trainings available for livelihood.

“We take the social impact of displacement very seriously,” said Yap.

Brader also said fare computation will still be based on current jeepney fares with consideration for reasonable profit.

All buses will be air-conditioned.

The BRT from Bulacao to Ayala will have its own access but will integrate with other vehicles from Ayala to Talamban.

Among the members of the TWG are: Yap, City Administrator Jose Ma. Poblete, Department of Engineering and Public Works, City Assessor’s Office, City Planning and Development Office, South Road Properties Management Office, DOTC, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board 7, Land Transportation Office 7, Department of Public Works and Highways 7 and Department of Environment and Natural Resources 7.