THE study for Metro Cebu’s transport master plan, which is being undertaken by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica), will be completed by October 2018, a representative of the Metro Cebu Development Coordinating Board (MCDCB) said yesterday.

Speaking during the 888 News Forum in Marco Polo Plaza, Engr. Lynn Madrona said that MCDCB, in partnership with Jica, is working on an Urban Transport Master Plan (UTMP) for Metro Cebu.

Madrona said the UTMP is one of the flagship projects identified in the Roadmap for Sustainable Urban Development of Metro Cebu. This project is aimed at providing solutions to the continuing problem of traffic congestion.

Madrona said there is a need for an effective traffic management office in a local government unit (LGU).

She said that MCDCB will participate in the planning of projects for Metro Cebu that could minimize traffic congestion and provide a reliable public transportation system.

She said there are pilot projects being undertaken by the study team with Lapu-Lapu City to formulate the Land Public Transport Route Plan (LTPRP).

“This is in line with the project of the DOTr (Department of Transportation) for the PUJ (public utility jeepney) modernization. Jica is helping them in relation to the preparation of LTPRP,” Madrona said.

She also said that Jica is helping in the preparation of a system of traffic signals in the intersection of Lapu-Lapu City near the old Mactan-Mandaue Bridge. (EOB)