TRULY, Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio is in level best pursue of mammoth projects before this term ends; perhaps to sustain the momentum while Davao is one of the most livable cities.
Topping in the priorities is the full implementation of the modernized city transport through the High Priority Bus System (HPBS), the opening of the coastal by-pass road, and the set out of Davao-Samal Bridge.
On the HPBS: After the third consultation, hundreds of drivers and operators bared willingness to take the options offered by the city government which is a healthy indicator that the project will be implemented sooner than expected.
Traditionally with PUJs, passengers are used to be picked-up or dropped right at the doorstep of their destination, which often causes traffic jams. With the HPBS, the rail users will live a healthier and longer life by taking short strides from the designated bus stops going to their destinations.
But the most valuable benefit yet silent feature of having the HPBS in the city is that all buses are Euro 4-compliant. Which means the amount of air pollution is almost insignificant compared to the dark emission of the out-modeled PUJs.
On the coastal bypass road: Once this road is completed and passable, not only the vehicles are expected to utilize this horizontal project. We can also anticipate seeing young ones and the young at hearts sitting at the seawall from dusk to dawn to unwind, feel the gentle wind at night, resolve proposals, reminiscence, enjoy the view, or loiter around to breathe-in the fresh ocean breeze.
But perfectly it will ease the bustling city from vehicles going north from the south and vice versa, added to the existing Ulas-Buhangin diversion road.
On Davao-Samal Bridge: We foresee a lot of benefits to enjoy with the project. But I cannot name rough while the negotiation is yet on the hip. Although in mind, to jog along the three-kilometer Davao-Samal Bridge on weekends with a (lady) nurse is a healthy habit.
With the fruition of these projects, Davao City will no longer like a sickly canine lying down on the doormat, but a healthy dog that could wag its tail to welcome more visitors.