Council body wants ‘grander’ traffic management masterplan

By LITO RULONA,
Correspondent

City Council Committee on Road and Traffic Management Chairman Romeo Calizo wants the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) to present a well-prepared proposal on the comprehensive Integrated Traffic Plan for the city.

Calizo said it should take several committee meetings before a comprehensive Integrated Traffic Plan could be drafted.

The committee also took the time to hear the comments and suggestions of the invited guests on how to improve traffic in the city. Guest included acting-City Police Director Senior Supt. Gerardo Rosales of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office, Land Transportation Office 10 regional director Oscar Salcedo, Barangay Chairmen of the Association of Barangay Council, and several presidents of public transportation groups.

“We need a grander plan,” Calizo said.

The traffic plan, which was drafted by the RTA, involves the construction of elevated walkways connecting major establishments, establishment of carpool services, and mass transit system, and construction of vertical parking space buildings, among others.

However, City Councilor Teodulfo Lao said it was the same presentation the committee heard in previous meetings with no additional information and input. Lao also heads the Committee on Public Utilities.

Salcedo said the city must take immediate action on simple things such as the removal of posts or improvement of roads. The required setback for every construction should also be strictly implemented, he said.

Salcedo said he is willing to help the city come up with the plan.

Councilor Reuben Daba, for his part, urged the RTA to also include barangays in planning and enforcement.

“Sila ang grassroots. Sila ang nahibalo,” he added.