The city government of San Fernando has tied up with a private firm for the establishment of a mass transit system that could address the worsening traffic situation here.

Mayor Vilma Balle-Caluag signed a memorandum of understanding with Jose Christopher Fornier II, president of private firm Futran (Future of Transport) Philippines, Inc., on Tuesday as an initial step towards the realization of a bold yet long-term solution to increasing transport issues in this province’s capital city.

Balle-Caluag said a feasibility study which will run for six to 12 months will be conducted to determine the technical and financial viability of the project.

The mass transit system called “People Mover Project” comprises a suspended podcar rail system that features a “green concept” involving sustainable and renewable energy through the use of solar panels.

“This will address the continuing traffic congestion amid the increasing size of the workforce, building clients and tourists in the city,” Caluag said in a statement on Wednesday.

The city government has been discussing various measures with different sectors to address the escalating traffic problems.

Among these are the modification of the scope and timing of the truck restriction in the city as well as the changing of the students and employees’ schedules.

Last week, Caluag issued an executive order for the implementation of a four-day compressed work week for office-based transactions and services as an alternative work arrangement effective Dec. 4.

She said the move is one of the city’s proactive measures to address traffic congestion.

However, regular operations of offices whose functions involve the delivery of health services, social welfare and development services, peace and order, and response to disasters/calamities shall still be implemented. (PNA)