SM malls to install bike-friendly facilities

As the country adapts to the new normal, more and more people have switched to using their bikes as their mode of transportation.

In light with this change, SM has decided to transform its malls to bike-friendly establishments to support and promote a culture of cycling.

In a press release, the mall giant said it would build bike-friendly infrastructure and facilities for the benefit of the growing cycling community.

The initiative will start rolling out at SM Mall of Asia in September followed by the company’s other malls nationwide in the coming months.

Aside from installing cycling lanes and bike-centric street signs, SM said it would also enhance parking capacity and add repair stations, helmet depository, bike supply, and refreshment areas.

SM said the bike repair station at MOA Complex would be equipped with “a bike stand, floor pump, and essential tools which customers can also use for free.”

Bikers could also deposit their helmets at the Ocean Drive station for free before they head inside the mall.

At the bike vendo machines, customers could easily purchase ride essentials such as bike tubes, lights, blinkers, bike locks, repair kits, tire kits, hand wipes, ponchos, gloves, and multitools.

There would also be a kiosk offering a wide range of bike gear and accessories, while another separate vending machine would be available for snacks and drinks.

According to SM Engineering, Design, and Development president Hans Sy Jr., the initiative “is part of a comprehensive plan to make communities where SM malls are located more inclusive, livable, and sustainable.”

In August, Assistant Secretary for Road Sector Mark Steven Pastor said DOT was seeking to get budgetary allocation for its proposed bike lanes network all over Metro Manila under the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or “Bayanihan 2.” – Jannielyn Ann Bigtas/RC, GMA News