J. Vargas Ave. in Pasig to have a dedicated motorcycle, bike lane

Motorists that regularly pass Julia Vargas Avenue in Pasig City will soon see some changes.

Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto recently posted on Twitter that they will be changing the layout of J. Vargas Avenue. Instead of having three lanes for cars with a provision for a bicycle lane, the road will have a dedicated lane for motorcycles and bicycles – each measuring 1.5 meters wide. As a result, one car lane will be ditched. 

To ensure cyclists can use the bicycle lane safely, the lane will be separated from the rest of the road with plant boxes. It will also be painted in blue to highlight that only bicycles can use the lane. 

Sotto expects drivers to complain about the upcoming changes and will ask for the return of the three-car lanes. However, he stressed that the new layout will be better in the long run. Not only will it promote alternative modes of transportation, but it will also make J. Vargas Avenue safer for all. For now, the city government is coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to put the necessary markings and changes.

This is not the first time J. Vargas Avenue has undergone a layout change. In 2018, the city implemented a carpool lane along the major roadway, much to the dismay of the public. Ultimately, implementation of the carpool lane was stopped after it proved to be confusing for road users.

Should more cities adopt Pasig City's plan to make dedicated motorcycle and bicycle lanes? Let us know in the comments below.