Alternative traffic flows to be tested in six-month pilot

By Nimfa L. Estrellado City officials and barangay leaders examine proposed routes as part of a six-month traffic pilot in Lucena. (Sangguni...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

City officials and barangay leaders examine proposed routes as part of a six-month traffic pilot in Lucena. (Sangguniang Panlungsod - Lucena City)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Aiming to untangle Lucena’s traffic gridlock, the Sangguniang Panglungsod reviewed a six-month experimental traffic rerouting plan. Councilor Americo Lacerna presided over the recent session, stressing the need for coordination and clear implementation.

The proposal, titled “An Ordinance Authorizing the City Mayor to Execute a Six-Month Experimental Traffic Rerouting Scheme in Lucena,” seeks to ease persistent city congestion. It aims to test alternative routes and parking arrangements to identify solutions before considering permanent changes.



“We need a traffic rerouting plan that people can actually follow and understand, not one that creates more confusion on the road,” Lacerna said. He added, “This six-month experimental period allows the city to test routes, identify problems early, and make corrections based on real conditions.”

The session included input from barangays 1 to 11, Marketview, Ibabang Iyam, and Ilayang Iyam. Feedback focused on areas prone to congestion and the practicality of implementing temporary rerouting measures.

Councilor Lacerna highlighted that experience with peak-hour bottlenecks and passenger flow is vital in planning realistic traffic routes. He added that it ensures the proposed rerouting plan effectively addresses actual commuting challenges.

“Proper enforcement requires careful coordination between offices. Without it, even well-planned routes can fail to improve traffic. Everyone must follow the same standards to make the system work,” he said.

The six-month experimental plan aims to identify bottlenecks, test alternative traffic flows, and evaluate parking arrangements. Adjustments will be made based on weekly observations and commuter experiences before permanent implementation.

The trial plan covers major thoroughfares with designated routes for public transport and tricycles, while offices will monitor to keep traffic moving safely. TODA and JODA representatives noted that clearer routes could boost efficiency and reduce peak-hour passenger complaints.

City Legal and the mayor’s administrative team provided guidance on rules and procedures to ensure compliance with existing ordinances. The legal framework guarantees that modifications during the experimental period stay within city regulations.

If successful, the pilot could serve as a model for other cities facing similar traffic challenges. The coming months will show whether careful planning and coordination can truly ease Lucena’s rush-hour congestion.