The number of Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJs) along the Dontogan line will increase from the existing 42 units to 66. This is one of the key adjustments under the city’s Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP) in preparation for the Baguio City Integrated Terminal (BCIT) project to meet passenger demand in the area.
This increased number of jeepney units in the Dontogan line is a result of merging two routes in the LPTRP. Baguio Plaza-Sto. Tomas Proper (17 units) route and Baguio Plaza-Green Valley (25 units) have been merged with additional 24 units to ply the consolidated Dontogan line.
With these changes, a twofold effect is expected: an increase in traffic volume along Palispis Highway yet a significant reduction in congestion within the Central Business District (CBD).
To mitigate the anticipated increased traffic volume along Palispis Highway, Lardizabal proposed alternative routes which have been effectively used during peak hours such as Balacbac Road, Suello Village Road, and Sto. Rosario Diversion Road.
Road expansion on Palispis Highway is also underway to accommodate more vehicles which will significantly reduce traffic bottlenecks, Lardizabal said.
Lardizabal’s presentation addressed concerns previously raised by members of the Baguio City Council about transportation accessibility to the proposed BCIT in Dontogan Barangay which is located four to five kilometers from the CBD.
The BCIT is a project undertaken by the city government under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme, with Megawide Construction Corporation as the original proponent. It is currently under review by the city council which is set to render its decision after the 120-day review period. **Jordan G. Habbiling
