Bill seeks establishment of local bikeway agency

A LAWMAKER from Metro Manila filed a measure seeking for the establishment of a local bikeway agency in every city and town all over the country to prepare plans, specifications and manage construction of bikeway projects on thoroughfares within their jurisdiction.

House Bill (HB) 3827 authored by Pasay City Rep. Emi Calixto aims not only the creation of a Local Bikeways Office (LBO) per city or municipalities but also mandates the Office of the City or Municipal Engineer to be responsible for project development, management and implementation of a bikeway project and roadmap and defines the duties and obligations of bicyclist.

Calixto underscored the advantages of using a bicycle as an alternative means of transport far outweigh the use of a motorized vehicle.

“Aside from its health and physical rewards from exercise and relieving stress, the use of the bicycle does not only consume fossil fuels but will definitely decongest traffic in the metropolis,” Calixto said.

The measure, to be known as the “Bicyclist Act of 2014,” mandates the LBO to establish partnerships with local or foreign organization to carry out the provisions of this Act in facilitating an easy bicycle access and network.

The lawmaker said that not only proper infrastructure is needed, but foremost is the framework that will implement the bicycle program that is vital for its successful implementation.

She cited the State’s policy to protect and promote the right to health of the people and instill health consciousness among them.

The bill also mandates the LBO to establish and maintain a bicycle registry or database relative to its mandate of crafting a manual and a system of operational procedures.

Under the bill, all cities and municipalities shall establish in their respective jurisdictions a bicycle park limited to the enjoyment and use of bicycles, for its parking areas and other similarly related activities.

It also provides that all bicycle riders or cyclists shall obey traffic regulations, signs and other control devices applicable to vehicles, wear the appropriate gear and ensure that their bicycles are equipped with reflective materials visible from both sides.

A fine of not more than P2,000 awaits violators.