US-based urban planners back new uses for Clark

MANILA, Philippines - The redevelopment of the former Clark Air Base, now the Clark International Airport and Special Economic Zone, has the potential to provide significant economic benefits as a thriving aerotropolis serving the entire region, according to an Urban Land Institute (ULI) advisory services panel convened to examine new uses for the former US military facility.   

The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) sponsored the ULI panel, which visited the area on a five-day assignment.

“The panel was well received at the highest levels of the Philippines’ defense department and other government agencies. Our meeting with the Secretary of Defense and his senior aides allowed the panel to thoroughly understand the interests of the defense establishment with regard to the redevelopment of Clark,” according to ULI leader James DeFrancia, chairman of the advisory services panel and principal of Lowe Enterprises Inc. in Aspen, Colorado.

Among the panel’s recommendations for the base’s  redevelopment are as follows:

• Focus on establishing a new airport facility of world class design and character that will serve as the gateway to the Philippines; and,

• In conjunction with the new airport, take steps to improve the ground transport system, including enhanced rail and road access;

• Ensure that development of the districts surrounding the airport property is undertaken in a coordinated and mutually supporting manner so as to create housing, commercial and industrial uses, as well as educational, recreational and tourist facilities;

• Implement a new, centralized management structure that insures comprehensive oversight and coordinated activity at all levels; and

• Obtain financing through a mix of techniques, including funds generated from the redevelopment of current facilities in metro Manila that could result in relocating government agencies to Clark (which could entail public-private ventures, concessions, fees and rents).