MANILA- The country’s bike lane network is expected to reach 2,400 kilometers in 2028 as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) pushes for an active transport program seen to benefit cyclists, commuters, and other road users.
During the World Bicycle Day celebration last Saturday, DOTr Active Transport Program Management Office (PMO) Policy Lead Patrick Santos said mainstreaming the active transport campaign will involve projects to upgrade and expand existing bike lane and pedestrian walkway networks, and provide better Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) stops and End-of-Trip (EoT) cycling facilities.
“For the past three years, we have established a total of 564 kilometers of bike lanes in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao, and we aim to increase our established bike lanes to 2,400 kilometers by the year 2028,” Santos said, adding that the program will benefit commuters and active transport users.
Santos said the transport agency has lined up road projects for 2023, including the expansion of active transport infrastructure in nine regions, the Intramuros Active Transport Infrastructure Expansion, Quezon City Active Transport Infrastructure Improvement, and the Active Transport Project Dry Run along EDSA.
“Those who have less in wheels must have more in the road. We will always stand by this principle as we continue to rally for active transport until we are confident that our children will be safe on the road through whatever means, including cycling and walking,” he said.