P300-M skywalk project approved in Muntinlupa

Muntinlupa City Mayor Jaime Fresnedi had approved the release of P300 million for the construction of a multipurpose pedestrian overpass, dubbed as "skywalk," to decongest traffic in the crowded Alabang business district.

"The 11-meter wide, 200-meter long overpass aims to serve pedestrians. Unlike the ordinary overpass, the skywalk will be secured where guards will be deployed in the area for 24 hours," Fresnedi said.

He said nine escalators, and an elevator for the handicapped will serve pedestrians.

Neil Tayu, head of the N.C. Tayu and Associates Corp., referred to the skywalk as a unique overpass system along Montillano St. to Filinvest area which will connect the Filinvest business center to the Muntinlupa public market and the Alabang jeepney and bus terminals.

Tayu said the project is the first of its kind to be built in the country. It is under a built-operate-transfer scheme wherein the skywalk’s operation will be turned over to the city government after 24 years.

He stressed that the skywalk does not only answer the city’s problem on traffic congestion but will likewise address violations such as jaywalking and illegal vending.

"It is also expected to generate big revenues to the local government because of the 240 stalls installed within the skywalk premises. These will be sold to interested small-scale businessmen," Tayu added.

The illegal vendors who gather under the Alabang viaduct area will reportedly have no choice but to lease a stall from them to continue with their businesses thus making each of their transaction legal.

Fresnedi likewise said, "Unlike the ordinary overpass which are usually left unclean, there will be personnel assigned to keep it dirt free. Security guards will protect pedestrians from snatchers and holduppers who frequent the area."

Construction activities envisioned to start next month, will be undertaken until December next year.

Tayu said that this early, a number of metro mayors and officials in other cities linked to Muntinlupa but are also having traffic problems, have expressed interest in the so-called "Skywalk" project. — Rhodina Villanueva