Munti, DoTr look to expand bike lanes

THE city of Muntinlupa may soon be a key route for cyclists from Metro Manila and Cavite, Laguna, Batangas and Quezon (Calabarzon) once plans for additional bike lanes are implemented.

The Department of Transportation (DoTr) Road Sector recently met with Mayor Ruffy Biazon to discuss bike lane expansions in the city in an effort to improve transport linkages between the National Capital Region (NCR) and the south during a courtesy call on January 19 at the Muntinlupa City Hall.

Biazon welcomed the proposed DoTr projects, saying, “These plans complement the city’s vision to have walkable and bikeable communities for all Muntinlupeños.”

Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark Steven Pastor presented the overview of the project proposal to Biazon, which also involves bike lane projects in Calabarzon, with implementation targeted for May 2023.

According to Pastor, Muntinlupa plays a vital role in moving people in and out of the NCR, being the main gateway to the south. “Muntinlupa’s early preparation is crucial in linking the similar active transport expansion projects in the south, which are expected to be implemented in the provinces of Cavite and Laguna,” he added.

It should be noted that Muntinlupa already has a vibrant cycling community, which grew significantly from weekend riders to daily bikersto-work during the pandemic. The proposed expansion of bike lanes is expected to benefit thousands of cycling commuters passing through the city, as this will help increase alternate routes to ensure safety for cyclists and other road users.