LEGAZPI - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 5 in Bicol has initiated an infrastructure project in Legazpi City, aiming to offer flood protection and alleviate heavy traffic congestion.
According to a new release by the Philippines News Agency, the project, with a budget of PHP100 million, is funded under the 2023 General Appropriations Act (GAA) and is scheduled for completion by May 2024.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the road dike, a flood mitigation structure located outside the University of Sto. Tomas University (UST) campus in Barangay Rawis, was led by Eduarte. Upon completion, the project will help ease traffic flow to and from the first district of Albay.
The infrastructure project will include the installation of solar lights, sidewalks, lay-bys, wheel guards, and traffic and road signages. It is expected to serve as an alternative route to the northern barangays of Legazpi City, providing relief to traffic congestion.
Eduarte also highlighted that the road could become a tourism area, particularly at night, offering a recreational space for families and health enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, in Camarines Sur, another PHP100-million flood mitigation structure project is in progress. It began on May 9 and is designed to protect residents of Ocampo town from severe floods, particularly those living downstream from Hamorawon Bridge. The flood control structure will also safeguard agricultural farms in the area.
This 367.6-meter-long project is set to be completed in January 2024.