The World Bank (WB) and the city of Marikina wrapped up its loan negotiations last May 18, which would pave way to the signing of a grant agreement where the city will receive a grant of $1.3M for the construction of bicycle lanes totalling 66 kilometers.
Marikina was chosen by the WB for the bikeways project because of its effective management of streets and sidewalks. The financial grant would come from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), an allied agency of the WB.
"This project is Marikina’s contribution for the resolution of the environmental issues that arise from use of motorized transport. This will also give alternative mode of transit for Marikeños who would like to travel around the city on bikes safely and conveniently," Marikina Mayor Bayani Fernando said.
The GEF was established for the protection of the global environment and to promote environmentally-sound and sustainable economic development.
According to a study, around 50,000 people use bicycles in Marikina as an alternative mode of transportation and for carrying commercial goods. Similarly, Ordinance No. 137 was passed in 1996 which dwells on the use of all streets, avenues, alleys, sidewalks, bridges, parks, and other public places as bicycle lanes and the allotment of funds for their construction and maintenance. The ordinance protects bicycle riders, motorists and the public.
When the WB learned of the serious intention of the city in promoting bicycle riding, it chose Marikina as the pilot area for its bikeways project and the recipient of the financial grant.
Marikina launched a dry-run bicycle tour along its major roads to test the city’s potential for the bikeways project. The dry-run was part of the feasibility study undertaken by the University of the Philippines-National Center for Transport Studies Foundation. After a series of studies and observations, some bike lanes were constructed and along with it, bicycle parking – steel railings where bike owners can lock their bicycles to — strategically located along the city’s bike zones and in government buildings and public places.