MMDA Proposes Road Sharing for EDSA Bike Lane Amidst Rising Motorcycle Traffic

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has unveiled its intentions regarding the potential adoption of a road-sharing concept for the bike lane on Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA).

Atty. Don Artes, the Acting Chairman of MMDA, conveyed that the agency is presently engaged in a preliminary evaluation focused on the feasibility of converting the bike lane into a shared space for both bicycles and motorcycles.

📸: MMDA fb page

Artes stated during a press briefing at the MMDA Head Office in Pasig City that the EDSA bicycle lane is not being fully utilized. To address this, a preliminary study is being carried out, scheduled for completion within the week. A stakeholders’ meeting is planned for August 29, involving representatives from cyclist and motorcycle rider groups.

The challenge lies in accommodating the substantial number of motorcycles that traverse EDSA daily. According to the MMDA Traffic Engineering Center’s latest data as of July 17, EDSA witnesses 165,000 motorcycles each day.

Artes emphasized that before finalizing and proposing recommendations to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the input of stakeholders will be sought. Ultimately, the DOTr holds authority over the bike lane since it is their initiative.

Parallel to the road-sharing idea, the MMDA is exploring the possibility of constructing an elevated walkway and bikeway on EDSA, spanning from Guadalupe to Cubao.

Artes also reiterated that the agency established the policy of exclusively dedicating the bicycle lane over three years ago. However, due to the suspension of the no-contact apprehension policy, many motorcyclists have been using the bike lanes on EDSA. In response to complaints from cycling groups about the misuse of the dedicated lane, the MMDA’s approach currently involves reminding motorcyclists not to utilize the EDSA bicycle lane.

Violators disregarding traffic signs will face a fine of P1,000.

Furthermore, the MMDA will uphold the extended number coding scheme on August 25, despite the suspension of work and classes in Metro Manila and Bulacan due to the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 opening ceremonies at the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

In preparation for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, the MMDA has established a multi-agency command center (MACC) to enhance traffic management responsiveness.

Road works in Metro Manila will be temporarily halted from August 17 to September 10 to support traffic flow. Also, mall-wide sales will be prohibited in areas affected by the FIBA World Cup 2023 to ensure road accessibility and safety for vehicles and pedestrians during the event.