DOTr to create 470 kilometers of bike lanes across country this year

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) plans to construct a total of 470 kilometers of bike lanes across the country within this year.

According to the DOTr, the bike lanes will be established in Regions I, III, the National Capital Region, IV-A, V, VI, VII, VIII, and XI.

The total budget for the bike lane project is P932,820,342.

On Tuesday, the DOTr said it broke ground for the bike lane project in San Fernando, Pampanga.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Transportation Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure James Andres Melad said that "an additional 470 kilometers of protected bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure will be built to stay true to our commitment to making active transport a viable transportation and mobility option."

"The establishment of the protected bike lanes will contribute to the change in perspective and hopefully result in a change in the way we view and use public roads," said Melad.

Meanwhile, the active transport infrastructure in San Fernando covers 37.5 kilometers of protected bike lanes separated from the main road and separated bike lanes with bollards, which is seen to increase accessibility to key establishments and institutions.

At least 332,000 residents and active transport users are expected to benefit from the project, the DOTr said.

The Transportation Department said its whole active transport campaign seeks to establish 2,400 kilometers of bike lanes in 2028 to provide safe infrastructure for cyclists, commuters, and other road users.

The agency said it has lined up road projects for 2023, including the expansion of active transport infrastructure in nine regions, the Intramuros Active Transport Infrastructure Expansion, and the Quezon City Bike Bridge. —VBL, GMA Integrated News