Monday, February 9, 2009 [ sunstar.com.ph ]
By Jane Cadalig
THE construction of a flyover from Km 3 to Km 6 may be the best solution to free the town from traffic jams, but this has yet to be included in the priorities of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Engineer Robert Gahid of the Benguet Engineering District said priorities are now set on the construction of circumferential roads, which will eventually serve as alternate routes to lessen the volume of vehicles passing the highway.
Gahid, however, said flyover construction along the busiest stretch of the road is very feasible, adding that expansion has already been maximized.
"We have no plans of expanding the road yet," he said. "It would not be possible for the DPWH to widen the four-lane highway without facing legal entanglements."
"The last time we proposed for expansion, we have been greeted with numerous legal suits from various claimants," added Gahid.
The DPWH is set to install traffic signs and repaint pedestrian lanes along La Trinidad's main road, one among the immediate moves to help ease traffic flow.
Gahid said the putting up of pedestrian overpasses and the installation of concrete barriers at the center of the highway are also being considered.
"These are among the long-term plans we have for the improvement of traffic flow in La Trinidad," he said.
Daily, around 3,000 vehicles pass through the town's main road, as estimated by the town's traffic office.
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