Quisumbing endorses P1B flyover

REP. Gabriel Luis “Luigi” Quisumbing (Cebu, sixth district) yesterday said he endorsed a “tri-level” flyover project on United Nations Ave. corner Plaridel St., Mandaue City, which the Department of Public Works and Highways designed at the cost of more than P1 billion.

Quisumbing said the flyover was supposed to be funded using the P188 million that was originally allocated for a flyover on Ouano Ave. near Parkmall and the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC).

“The funds (P188 million) were not enough for the design (that cost more than P1 billion), therefore DPWH asked me if they can realign (these) to other infrastructure projects,” Quisumbing said.

At present, the House of Representatives is conducting hearings on the budget proposals of the different national government agencies, including DPWH, for 2013.

There is a possibility that the P1 billion for the tri-level flyover project will be included in the 2013 General Appropriations Act.

The tri-level flyover will lead to different directions, such as the Marcelo Fernan Bridge, North Reclamation Area passing Plaridel St., Pacific Mall where the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is located, and to Cansaga Bridge going to the municipalities of Consolacion and Liloan.

“Due to increased traffic especially with the Cansaga Bay Bridge and north-bound and south-bound traffic, a tri-level flyover will help tremendously.

I personally would prefer widening as well, but given the expensive cost of land acquisition plus the presence of the Butuanon Bridge, the flyover is our best option for UN Ave.,” Quisumbing said.

The congressman said that with the increasing tourist arrivals and the progress of industries around Metro Cebu, it is inevitable that the traffic volume there will continue to increase “unless we address it soon.”

“I am working closely with DPWH, the Mandaue City Government and NGOs (non-government organizations) to try to find the best solution,” he said.