Future of Boulevard Skywalks Pending: Implications for Cebu BRT Project
October 2, 2023
CEBU CITY – The fate of two elevated pedestrian crossings located along a notable boulevard is set to be determined soon by the Office of the Building Official (OBO), as these structures are situated where the Department of Transportation intends to establish a terminal for the Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project.
Architect Florante Catalan, the chief of the OBO in Cebu City, informed that the legal proprietors of the skywalks built on Osmeña Blvd years ago, designed to facilitate pedestrian movement above ground, are yet to submit the necessary documentation. The Department of Transportation, particularly the management office of the Cebu BRT Project, has proposed the removal of these structures, specifically those near the Fuente Osmeña Circle and by the Cebu Normal University (CNU).
Until the required permissions for dismantling are secured, the OBO has halted any actions aimed at the structures’ demolition. These skywalks, constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) using congressional finances, are under the jurisdiction of the local government of Cebu City as the designated end users.
Architect Catalan emphasized the necessity for legal documents to proceed with the demolition, stating, “I need a document to be submitted to OBO for the lifting of the suspension [of the demolition].”
Earlier this year, Mayor Michael Rama did not oppose a resolution from the Cebu City Council in May, which supported the BRT management’s intent to dismantle the skywalks to facilitate the construction of the BRT terminals. Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera, the author of the resolution, justified the demolition of the skywalks, citing them as obstacles to the construction of the BRT terminals.
Engr. Norvin Imbong, the manager of the CBRT project, mentioned that the assigned contractor would execute the demolition of the structures once the green light is received.
For additional information and further reading, refer to the original article here.