MANILA — In a bid to enhance urban mobility and promote sustainable transportation, Congress has approved an increase in funding for bicycle lanes.
Quezon City Representative Marvin Rillo announced that the budget for the Active Transport and Safe Pathways Program (ATSPP) has been raised to P1 billion in the 2024 General Appropriations Law.
Rillo, who serves as the vice chairperson of the House committee on Metro Manila development, emphasized the need to expedite the development of protected bicycle lanes.
The increased budget is specifically allocated for lanes with durable physical separation from mixed traffic lanes, aiming to provide safer and more efficient routes for cyclists.
Notably, the approved amount of P1 billion is double the initial request of P500 million made by the Department of Budget and Management during the budget submission for congressional approval.
Rillo, a member of the House appropriations committee, expressed satisfaction with the decision to allocate additional funds, underscoring the importance of prioritizing active transportation initiatives.
The P1 billion funding for the ATSPP is included in the 2024 budget of the Department of Transportation (DOTr). This new allocation supplements the amounts allocated in previous years, with P705 million and P2 billion earmarked for the program in 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The move to bolster funding for bicycle lanes reflects a growing recognition of the significance of sustainable and eco-friendly transportation solutions.
As cities worldwide grapple with traffic congestion and environmental concerns, investing in infrastructure that supports active transport is seen as a crucial step towards creating more livable and resilient urban spaces.
This latest development is expected to contribute to the ongoing efforts to encourage cycling as a viable mode of transportation, promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional vehicular traffic.
(IAmigo/MNM)
