Cagayan de Oro City may soon take a major step toward modern, pedestrian-friendly urban living as Congressman Rufus Rodriguez pushes for a “Greenbelt-style” elevated walkway system along C.M. Recto Avenue.
The initiative comes after Rodriguez, together with officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region X, conducted a benchmark inspection of the De la Rosa Elevated Walkway in Makati City—a well-known pedestrian network that allows people to move seamlessly between commercial centers without stepping onto busy roads.
A Vision for Safer, Smarter Walkways
Inspired by the pedestrian-friendly layout of Makati’s Greenbelt district, the proposed elevated walkway in Cagayan de Oro aims to connect key institutions, malls, and public spaces into one continuous, safe pathway.
Once completed, the elevated system is expected to link:
- Northern Mindanao Medical Center
- Ayala Centrio Mall
- SM CDO Downtown Premier
- Limketkai Center
- Gaisano City Mall
- Nazareno Parish Church
The concept is simple but impactful: allow pedestrians to move across the city’s busiest commercial stretch without needing to cross traffic-heavy roads.
Proposed Route and Access Points
The elevated walkway is planned to stretch from the Gaisano–Centrio Overpass all the way to the Limketkai–USTP Overpass, with multiple access points in between for convenience and accessibility.
Key access areas include:
- Nazareno Church
- Ajirang Restaurant
- Red Planet Hotel / SM CDO Downtown area
- Limketkai Gateway Tower
This network-style design ensures that pedestrians can enter and exit the walkway at strategic locations, making it highly practical for daily commuters, shoppers, and even patients heading to nearby hospitals.
Investment and Timeline
An initial ₱83 million has already been secured for 2026, marking the first step toward the project’s realization. The full development is estimated to cost around ₱400 million.
While still in its early stages, the funding allocation signals strong government support and a clear direction toward improving urban mobility in the city.
More Than Just Convenience
Beyond easing pedestrian movement, the elevated walkway aims to address several urban challenges:
1. Improved Road Safety
By separating foot traffic from vehicular flow, the project significantly reduces the risk of road accidents—especially along busy corridors like C.M. Recto Avenue.
2. Traffic Decongestion
Fewer pedestrians crossing streets means smoother vehicle flow, helping ease congestion in one of the city’s busiest districts.
3. Healthier Lifestyle
Encouraging walking as a primary mode of short-distance travel promotes physical activity and overall well-being among residents.
4. Modern Urban Appeal
A connected walkway system enhances the city’s image as a forward-thinking, livable urban hub—similar to business districts in Metro Manila.
A Step Toward a More Walkable CDO
If realized, this “Greenbelt-inspired” elevated walkway could redefine how people move around Cagayan de Oro. It reflects a shift toward people-centered infrastructure—where safety, accessibility, and sustainability take priority.
For a fast-growing city like CDO, projects like this don’t just improve mobility—they shape the future of urban living.
As planning progresses, residents can look forward to a more connected, walkable, and modern city experience—one step above the traffic, literally.
