METROPOLITAN Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes announced the extension of another week of the dry run of the exclusive motorcycle (MC) lane along Commonwealth Avenue to give way to the patching works being undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and to provide more time to the motorists to be familiar with the policy.

Artes said the DPWH will continue its patching works along the area that started last week in response to the request of the MMDA based on the social media concerns received by the agency from motorists that the highway has uneven portions and potholes.

“We opt to continue the dry run of the exclusive motorcycle lane along Commonwealth Ave. from Elliptical Road to Doña Carmen and vice versa. In coordination with the DPWH, their [road] patch works in the area will continue to address the issues on the said road,” Artes said.

“The MMDA is grateful to the DPWH for acting quickly to our repair works request, which would help in lessening accidents,” the MMDA chief expressed.

“With another week of dry run, we hope to inform more motorists to avoid confusion before full implementation,” he added.

There have been 9,757 flagged-down motorcycle riders and four-wheel private vehicle drivers from March 9 to March 16; 7,584 of which are private vehicles, while 2,173 are motorcycles.

Aside from the road patch works, the MMDA is also eyeing to install reflectors and solar street lamps to light up the area, which would help avoid accidents.

The designated MC lane is located on the third lane from the sidewalk and is aimed to reduce motorcycle-related road crash incidents and ensure smooth traffic flow along Commonwealth Avenue.

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Edd Reyes