DOTr to build bike lanes in Batangas, Rizal

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will build new bike lanes in Region IV-A (CALABARZON). To be more specific, the government agency will expand the project to Lipa and Batangas City in Batangas, as well as in Antipolo, Cainta, and San Mateo in Rizal.

DOTr will construct new bike lanes in Batangas and Rizal

This follows the announcement that the DOTr proposed a Php 500 million budget for 2024 to improve the Active Transport Bike System and Safe Pathway Program in Metropolitan areas. As for the recently unveiled project, the agency will build 76.7 kilometers of Class 2 and Class 3 bike lanes in Batangas and Rizal.

Of note, a Class 2 bike lane is recommended for low-speed to low to moderate traffic volume, separated using pavement markings. Meanwhile, Class 3 is recommended for roads operating with the lowest speed and traffic volume.

“Next year nanghingi na kami ng additional budget para magkaroon ng additional bike lanes nationwide,” said Bautista.

(For next year, we already requested an additional budget to expand the bike lanes nationwide.)

DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista graced the groundbreaking ceremony

DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista expressed his gratitude towards local government units (LGUs) supporting the project. The bike lane project should provide a safer and more eco-friendly way to get around the metro. The DOTr chief also cited several health benefits from cycling instead of driving.

Not only will bicyclists benefit from the bike lanes but also pedestrians as they will be given dedicated walkways under the Active Transport Campaign. In collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the project will provide road markings to distinguish the lanes.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Bautista said the agency will establish 400 km of bike lanes in the country.

And by 2028, the DOTr aims to complete 2,400 km of bike lane network nationwide. The Active Transport Infrastructure will also be expanded in nine regions including Davao City, Metro Cebu, Iloilo, and Laguna Lake Highway, among others.

The DOTr's bike lane project is progressing

Furthermore, the budget will be allocated to other DOTr projects such as the modernization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP)

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