2005News

Rafael Tomas Hernandez on the metro

Architect Rafael Tomas Hernandez warned the government that the subway system is not a top priority for the resolution of mass transit problems in Santo Domingo. The architect demonstrated how more bridges, up to date maintenance of current bridges and better bus service along improved avenues would solve the problem and cause less disruption inside the city. As reported by Hoy, the architect, that has 50 years of experience in city planning for Santo Domingo, joined in the chorus of those who feel that the “announced” price tag of US $326.6 is much less than the final cost. As others before him, Architect Hernandez, told reporters that there was still time for the government to investigate other solutions. As many observers have noted, the architect said he was worried about the maintenance of the system, and pointed out that the Columbus Lighthouse is now dark, in spite of being a major tourist attraction. As one of the designers of the 27th of February Avenue, the Olympic Center and the Nunez de Caceres avenues, Hernandez prefers alternate solutions, such as the three bridges that are needed to make the city function better. As a builder himself, Hernandez called Diandino Pena’s presentation of the Metro proposal “brilliant’.