The Cebu Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, a highly anticipated infrastructure project aimed at improving public transportation in Cebu City, is making steady progress despite ongoing challenges. The project, which broke ground in February 2023, is expected to be fully operational by the second quarter of 2025, with partial operations eyed as early as the fourth quarter of 2023.
The BRT project is a 13.18-kilometer bus lane that will run from Mambaling to Cebu IT Park. It will feature dedicated bus lanes, elevated stations, and modern buses, and is expected to serve up to 160,000 passengers daily once fully operational.
Current Status and Progress
Construction of the BRT project is currently underway, with the first package, covering a 2.38-kilometer stretch along Osmeña Boulevard, in the advanced stages of completion. The contractor, Hunan Road and Bridge Construction Group Co. Ltd., has requested approval for 24/7 construction and exemption from the truck ban to expedite the project.
The project has also faced some challenges, including the recent death of over 200 trees that were relocated to make way for the construction. The Cebu City Council has launched an investigation into the matter, and the project implementers are reviewing their tree relocation and maintenance procedures.
Anticipated Impact and Future Plans
The Cebu BRT project is expected to significantly improve public transportation in Cebu City, reducing travel times, decongesting roads, and providing a more reliable and comfortable commuting experience for passengers. The project is also seen as a catalyst for economic development in the city, attracting more businesses and investments.
In addition to the BRT project, the Cebu City government is also pursuing plans for a light rail transit (LRT) system to further enhance public transportation in the city. The LRT project is still in the planning stages, but it is expected to complement the BRT system and provide a more comprehensive public transportation network for Cebu City.
The Cebu BRT project represents a significant step forward in the city's efforts to modernize its public transportation system and improve the quality of life for its residents. Despite the challenges faced, the project is making steady progress, and its completion is eagerly anticipated by Cebuanos.
