By: Aliahcorr Balanon
Photo by: Manila Bulletin
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is planning to build a concourse that is away from Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3 to serve as a bus station along the carousel while EDSA rehabilitation is set to start in early April instead of March due to the need of further planning.
According to the transportation secretary Vince Dizon, the department will be meeting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to iron out the traffic management plan.
Opening of SM North EDSA busway
The SM North EDSA busway concourse formally opened on Thursday, Mar. 13, which will connect the passengers to the mall, other establishments and various transportation options accessible to senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWD) and pregnant women.
“Beyond being a 24/7 transport link, this project carries a special meaning for SM Prime because it aligns with our vision as a property developer. At SM Prime, we see infrastructure not just as buildings, but as a way to create spaces that genuinely serve people,” said SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim.
In preparation of next year's Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the transportation secretary announced that DPWH is set to rehabilitate Metro Manila’s main highway, EDSA.
“Kami ni Chairman Don [Artes], sasabayan na namin. Habang ginagawa ng DPWH ‘yung kalye, sasabay na kami dito sa gitna,” said Dizon while alongside the MMDA head.
“So, magtutulungan kami with MMDA, para gagayahin na rin lang ito. Bakit pa tayo mag-iisip? Kinakita na ng SM sa atin kung anong maganda. So, gagayahin na rin,” he added, referring to the bus concourse at SM North EDSA.
According to Dizon, while the rehabilitation will impact traffic, it will bring great relief to commuters once operational.