Biz owners back use of gas stations as “lay-by” areas

CEBU, Philippines — The proposal to use gasoline stations as “lay-by” areas where motor vehicles can load and unload passengers during peak hours got the support of business owners in the city.

Councilor Rey Gealon, chairman of the City Traffic Management Coordinating Committee, said there were more than 30 gasoline station owners and representatives who attended their meeting the other day and all of them are supportive of the plan.

The TMCC has proposed to use gas stations as temporary loading and unloading areas during peak hours to address the worsening traffic congestion in the city caused by the ongoing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project.

“The scheme, as we explained to them, was not met with opposition. In fact, some were willing to help the city in that regard, understanding this to be their contribution for the betterment of the city moving forward,” Gealon told The Freeman.

Those who attended the meeting representing different gas stations and other establishments were amenable to the suggestion that a portion of their property will accommodate waiting passengers.

“It was agreed that the frontage of their respective establishments will be used as temporary loading and unloading area of motor vehicles, especially during peak hours,” added Gealon.

There was a bit of an apprehension at first that their property may be used as terminals.

“But we assured them that it will only be embarking and disembarking of passengers and no other - such that, vehicles cannot be on standby in the area to wait for passengers,” assures Gealon.

Traffic enforcers will also be assigned on site for traffic management and enforcement.

“We are elated with this development, and will forthright formally communicate to them of the preparation and timeline of our test run,” Gealon said. – /FPL (FREEMAN)