• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bacolod Traffic and Transport Management Department has launched an experimental traffic scheme at the intersection of Lopez Jaena and Galo Streets in an attempt to alleviate congestion along the city’s major thoroughfares.
Under the new directive, vehicles exiting The Upper East area are prohibited from making a left turn toward Lopez Jaena or proceeding directly to Galo Street.
Motorists are instead required to proceed toward Luzuriaga Cemetery and utilize a designated U-turn slot in front of the Bureau of Fire Protection office.
BTTMD Head Atty. Reuben Mikhail Sabig stated that the measure is currently experimental and is implemented from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
The primary objective is to eliminate left-turn maneuvers that have been identified as a cause of traffic congestion in the area, particularly due to the intersection’s proximity to Burgos Street.
Sabig noted that the volume of private vehicles using the area as a shortcut has hindered the flow of vehicles and public transport along Lopez Jaena.
To assist motorists, the department has designated towing and no-parking zones near the BFP to ensure the U-turn slot remains accessible.
Alternative routes include passing behind STI West Negros University or utilizing Burgos Street for those heading toward Granada and the New Government Center.
Sabig acknowledged that the public may be surprised by the new configuration but assured that the BTTMD will continue to observe the impact of the changes to ensure traffic remains flowing.*
