MMDA to open Commonwealth Avenue motorcycle lane next month: Report

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is looking to open the exclusive motorcycle lane along Commonwealth Avenue next month.

The Commonwealth Avenue motorcycle lane is scheduled to open in February

In a report by ABS-CBN News, the new motorcycle lane is now in its finishing stages, with the MMDA installing road signages and lane markings. Initially slated for completion last November, the agency added that it is not rushing the construction to ensure safety not only for motorcyclists but other road users as well.

It was in October 2022 when the MMDA first revealed its plan to establish a motorcycle lane along Commonwealth. The reason behind the project is the increasing number of road users, with EDSA exceeding pre-pandemic levels in terms of vehicular volume.

Now that the motorcycle lane is approaching its completion, traffic in the area is expected to be smoother. There will be dedicated lanes for four-wheeled private cars and public utility vehicles (PUVs), which should reduce traffic build-ups caused by lane change maneuvers.

The proposed motorcycle lane

Moreover, the lane will improve safety along Commonwealth Avenue, especially for motorcyclists that are more prone to road accidents. In a recent report by the MMDA, the number of motorcycle-related fatalities is increasing, with 2020 and 2021 recording 253 and 295 fatalities, respectively. As such, the agency is spearheading safety campaigns.

One of these is the Motorcycle Riding Academy in Metro Manila, which aims to provide motorcyclists with theoretical and practical training on motorcycle riding. To encourage more motorists to join the academy, the MMDA is in talks with motorcycle ride-hailing services to prioritize hiring those who have completed the riding course.

The MMDA is also looking to strengthen its process of handing out fines and penalties with the single ticket system. Under this system, a list of 20 common traffic violations will be compiled and carry a standardized set of fines for apprehensions made in Metro Manila. Motorists who have incurred at least 10 demerit points will have their licenses confiscated.

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