By Xander Ledesma
The Bacolod City government is considering measures to optimize the recently inaugurated Bacolod-Negros Occidental Economic Highway (BANOCEH), a 48.8-kilometer modern road network designed to improve traffic flow and support economic growth in the region.
Councilor Al Victor Espino, chair of the traffic and transportation committee, announced Monday that the City Council is awaiting a study from the Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department (BTTMD) on a proposal to restrict trucks, heavy equipment, and similar vehicles from using the Circumferential Road. Instead, these vehicles would be required to use the BANOCEH.
Espino explained that the ordinance would aim to decongest the Circumferential Road, a key thoroughfare that experiences heavy daily traffic. “This will ensure that BANOCEH is fully utilized, making the Circumferential Road safer for motorists and pedestrians,” Espino said.
The proposal particularly targets sugarcane trucks, which currently contribute to congestion along the Circumferential Road, including areas near the Bacolod City Government Center.
Last week, the City Council passed a resolution directing the BTTMD to assess the feasibility of the truck restriction. A separate study by the City Planning and Development Office will examine resource allocation to support BANOCEH’s increased use.
Completed on August 30, the PHP7-billion BANOCEH project was funded by the national government and is expected to spur growth by improving connectivity between Bacolod City and surrounding areas. It starts at the Bacolod South Road junction in Barangay Sum-ag and extends to the Bacolod North Road junction in Victorias City. The highway includes road improvements, new paving, and enhancements to 16 bridges.
Espino expressed optimism that once implemented, the measure would significantly reduce congestion and enhance road safety in Bacolod City.