BAGUIO CITY – The on-going rehabilitation of People’s Park will transform the place into a people-friendly multi-function events area.
Mayor Mauricio Domogan said the project which costs P8.9 million is expected to fulfill the vision to restore the area into its original status as a plaza or traditional events area for various public and private activities including those in the political or entertainment fields.
The rehabilitation work began last April and is expected to be completed in December.
Council tourism committee chair Councilor Elmer Datuin who proposed the restoration project said it is high time to restore the old grandeur and intended purpose of the area as a plaza and open space ideal for all kinds of events which was marred after it was remodeled ten years ago with an unsuitable design.
Datuin said among the features are a collapsible and movable stage, bigger capacity audience area, areas ideal for art pavillon and exhibits while the sitting area usually occupied by senior citizens will be retained.
The city buildings and architecture office which prepared the program of work describes the project as thus:
“The project reimagines the park as an open space allowing for multiple types of activities. The wedge shape and gradual slope of the site is taken advantage of by introducing a stepped surface that may function as platforms for viewing during speaker-led events and a stage for others;
“The space would also allow for mobile stages and setups to be fabricated anywhere within the square allowing it to be used for different purposes such as theatrical performances, concerts, fairs and art exhibitions;
“The main square is distinctively defined by randomly striped dark grey and white monolithic tiles. Striped grass and pavers, new timber clad benches and a pedestrian street at one of the edges;
“This street on the south side would accommodate the heavy pedestrian traffic from Session Road effectively extending it and gentrifying the area. This could eventually spur the redevelopment of the building s around the square and introduce new destinations for tourists and locals.”
The project also covers the rehabilitation of the drainage system and construction of a rainwater catchment retention cistern for flood control. /Aileen P. Refuerzo
