IF DUMAGUETE City markets itself as an eco-tourism mecca in the Philippines, it’s high time for city planners and the local government to focus on safe, secure, convenient, well-managed and well-designed streets that recognize the value of short-walking trips as an alternative to short-motorcycle trips.

Dumaguete City, according to Forbes magazine, is the fifth best place to retire in the world.

The streets of Dumaguete should be designed with safety considerations for foot travelers, elderly and people with disabilities.

The goal is to promote the development of streets and public spaces that people on foot can use and enjoy.

The overall vision is to help the elderly and the people with disabilities get out and walk with confidence and lead independent lives.

Dumaguete City-based architect Ned Carlos identified speeding vehicles, broken or blemished pavements, sidewalk motor cyclists, poorly manned crossings, insufficient lighting, inadequate street signage, scarce street names and on-street parking as hazards especially among retirees and foreign and local tourists.

The architect suggests the introduction of walkable neighborhoods, one-stop shops, cycling pavements (for bicycles), jogging paths, proper zoning and urban gardens for canopy trees and landscaping. (PR)