DOTr eyes completion of over 500 km of bike lanes in NCR, Cebu, Davao by end of 2021

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is targeting to complete more than 500 kilometers of bike lanes in three of the country’s major metropolitan areas before the end of the year to increase mobility, lessen carbon emission, and promote road safety.

At the virtual launch of the DOTr-SM Active Transport (Bike) MANUAL, Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said that to date, around 55% or a total of around 296 kilometers of bike lane network have been established.

These include the construction of pavement markings, bollards, curbs and solar studs.

“The goal is to complete the total bike lane network length in Metro Manila, [Metro] Cebu, and [Metro] Davao to almost 535 kilometers before the year ends,” Tugade said.

For his part, Transportation Secretary for Road Sector Mark Steven Pastor said  the Bayanihan 2 provides P1.3 billion worth of funding for active transport, “P1.1 billion of which was allocated for the establishment of our bike lanes.”

“For Metro Manila po we allotted more or less P800 million at meron tayong 340 kilometers dito,” Pastor said.

“Sa Metro Cebu, P150 million at 140 kilometers worth of bike lanes ganun din sa Metro Davao may P150 million din po at ito will equate to 160 kilometers of bike lanes,” he added.

Meanwhile, the DOTr-SM Bike Manual is aimed at promoting road safety, courtesy and etiquette among the bike-riding public, pedestrians and motorists. 

It is printed in English and Filipino, and will be distributed for free in all SM Malls nationwide. — Ted Cordero/RSJ, GMA News