Bike lane idea gains ground

CEBU, Philippines - Following a request from the transportation agency asking the city government for a bike lane project proposal, various departments and sectors have joined hands in giving input to form the final brief.

The success of the brief will convince the Department of Transportation and Communication to provide technical and financial assistance for a feasibility study.

Council committee on environment chairwoman Councilor Nida Cabrera said she will call for a public consultation within the week to hear what the private sector and civil society have to say regarding the latest development.

“I’m finalizing the project proposal for the study and before submitting this I need to consult some sectors,” Cabrera told The FREEMAN.

Cabrera authored the resolution tapping the DOTC following a recommendation of City Traffic Operations Management.

She added she will closely work with the city planning and city traffic departments aside from civil society.

While both offices have yet to receive the formal invitation, CITOM chief Rafael Yap and licensed urban planner Niceforo Iroy from the City Planning and Development office expressed their willingness to thoroughly discuss the components of the project brief.

“Wala pa (invitation for a meeting). But would be glad to coordinate. Looks like city planning is also participating,” Yap said.

Like Yap, Iroy has also yet to receive his formal invitation to the meeting.

“I don’t have the invitation yet but of course the appropriate (action) is to conduct the feasibility study together with the CITOM,” Iroy said.

The licensed urban planner disagrees with the notion that DOTC has to step in for technical assistance since Cebu City does not have the expertise.

“In fact, that’s one of the directions identified in the draft comprehensive land use plan...we have enough knowledge to do the study. Maybe what we lack is the budget for the study,” he added.

He further explained that his office is “still finalizing our urban form that includes road network inventory as well as aligning to Mega Cebu development plan that promotes bicycle lanes along minor roads or a dedicated safe bike lane for selected major roads.”

Civil society is much pleased with the positive development leading to realization of bike lanes in Cebu.

Ecology lawyer Gloria Estenzo Ramos stressed the city has long deserved this eco-friendly endeavor.

“We are definitely moving towards institutionalization of the system of bike lane-cum-sidewalk in the city, which would lower air pollution and give recognition to the clamor of various sectors for a healthier lifestyle. This is a long overdue clamor and service that must be prioritized. The citizens’ right to breathe fresh air gives the responsibility to government to provide safe, bikeable, and walkable spaces for them, and lower carbon footprint,” Ramos said.

Movement for a Livable Cebu lead convenor Marc Canton reminded the public of the collective efforts needed to fully achieve bike lanes in the Queen City of the South.

“We have to ensure that the riders, drivers, pedestrians and public in general participate in the planning and feasibility study from routes chosen, safety measures, strict enforcement by CITOM, and overall public awareness and education. An overall plan has to be put together and as best as possible with no stones unturned,” Canton said assuring their support in creating “a good system.”  —/BRP (FREEMAN)