Lawmaker cites need to erect foot bridges near schools

ANGELES CITY -- Representative Carmelo Lazatin (1st district, Pampanga) has cited the need to erect overpasses or footbridges near universities and schools in the city to protect students and teachers from vehicular accidents.

He earlier announced the construction of two footbridges that his office, through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Road Board, will construct near Chevalier School in Barangay Santo Domingo and near System’s Plus College Foundation in Barangay Balibago.

Lazatin said the footbridges will cost P10 million each.

As early as February, Lazatin has been lobbying for funds for the construction of the footbridges from DPWH Road Board Executive Director Adolfo Escalona.

Lazatin said the construction of the footbridges is also part of his efforts to help minimize the traffic problems in the city.

“The areas around schools are prone to traffic buildup during rush hours because of the students who are crossing the road,” Lazatin said.

“Having footbridges for the students to use will not only help minimize the buildup, it will also ensure the safety of students,” he added.

Lazatin earlier announced his P342.9 million infrastructure project, which includes a P100-million road widening project of the West Circumferential Road.

Since 2007, Lazatin has implemented a total of P1 billion infrastructure projects in the First District of Pampanga.