Cyclists in Davao may now use 54.71-lane kilometers of protected bike lanes, as the Department of Transportation (DOTr) inaugurated the Metro Davao Bike Lane Network on Tuesday.
Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade said the bike lanes, which span across 14 road sections in Davao, will ensure the safety of the growing number of cyclists in the city.
“Cyclists don’t need to fight for road space or ply the road in fear. Bike lanes ensure the safety of bikers as bike lanes are equipped with markings, signage, bollards, bike symbols and concrete delineators,” he said during a press briefing on Tuesday.
Aside from the aforementioned features, the bike lanes are also equipped with solar studs and bike racks for the comfort and convenience of bikers.
The construction of the bike lane network was funded by the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act of 2020 with a total project cost of P145.37 million.
The bike lanes have a rated capacity of 1,250 cyclists per hour.
“Aside from policies that mandate us to promote active transport especially during the pandemic, the growing number of cyclists encouraged us to build these bike lanes,” Transportation Assistant Secretary Mark Steven C. Pastor said.
He added that the department is currently “coordinating” with law enforcement agencies to ensure the “proper usage” of the bike lanes.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region XI Director Peter B. Gille said the agency plans to expand the bike lane network next year.
“Our department has future plans to expand and improve the current bike lanes through the 2022 General Appropriations Act to enhance active transport infrastructure,” he said without expounding.
Aside from Metro Davao, the DOTr is building bike lanes in the National Capital Region and Metro Cebu. Combined, the total bike lane network being built should span 535 kilometers and will cost roughly P1.1 billion.
Active transport is currently being promoted due to the limited capacity and supply of transportation in the country. It also helps reduce the risk of viral transmission of Covid-19.