Preserving EDSA Busway A Key Investment in Mass Transit Development This title accurately reflects the content of the blog post, which argues that preserving the EDSA Busway is essential for meeting long-term demand for mass transit on the busy EDSA corridor. The title highlights the importance of investing in public transportation and presents a clear and concise summary of the post's main argument.

Title Preserving EDSA Busway A Key Investment in Mass Transit Development

As a development economist, city and regional planner, and public transport advocate, I strongly advocate for the preservation of the EDSA Busway. The recent suggestion to dismantle it is misguided, as it would reduce road space for private motor vehicles without addressing the long-term demand for mass transit on EDSA.

The Vital Role of EDSA

EDSA is a critical economic and social corridor that links numerous business districts, dense residential areas, and transportation hubs. Prior to the pandemic, there were close to 2 million public transport passengers on EDSA, with potential for even more if public transport were more convenient, reliable, and efficient.

Meeting Growing Demand

The MRT-3 is expected to carry 500,000 or more passengers daily between Bulacan and EDSA. However, without significant additional mass transit capacity, there will be longer queues on the MRT-3 and the EDSA Busway, as well as heavier congestion for motorists.

Enhancing Busway Capacity

To meet growing demand, the busway must not only be retained but also expanded to increase its capacity from 1.5 million to over 2 million passengers daily. This can be achieved through the introduction of new BRT buses, fully electric and zero emission; improved stations with weather protection and restrooms; cashless fare collection systems; and increased frequency.

Streamlining Services

A direct service approach could allow EDSA buses to originate from places like Dasmariñas, Cavite; Alabang; Biñan, Laguna; and Valenzuela, Bulacan, reducing the need for transfers and bringing passengers closer to their destinations.

Benefits of the Busway

The EDSA Busway offers commuters a higher quality of service, with buses and trains covering the same route. This allows for seamless transfers between modes, making public transport more convenient and reliable. The busway also provides redundancy and value to commuters, especially in cases where MRT-3 operations are shut down or reduced.

Lessons from Global Best Practices

In many livable cities, buses and trains operate on the same alignment, such as in London, Singapore, New York, and Seoul. This approach can provide efficient and productive use of road space. By prioritizing travel modes that move the greatest number of people, we can create a more effective public transport system.

Consulting Users for Better Decisions

Before making any hasty decisions about modifying or closing services, decision-makers should consult users to understand their needs and preferences. This includes asking the hundreds of thousands who endure long queues for the MRT-3 and EDSA Busway what they think of a busway shutdown.

Conclusion

In conclusion, preserving the EDSA Busway is crucial for meeting long-term demand for mass transit on this vital corridor. By expanding and improving the busway, we can create a more efficient, reliable, and convenient public transport system that benefits everyone.

About the Author

Robert Y. Siy is a development economist, city and regional planner, and public transport advocate. He is a co-convenor of the Move As One Coalition.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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