SM Supermalls Go Bike-Friendly Amidst The Pandemic

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LIFESTYLE | September 30, 2020

SM Supermalls go bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes across parking spaces in shopping centers connected to major roads in Metro Manila and different parts of the country. (Image Source: SM Supermalls)

Since the start of the enhanced community quarantine period due to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, the public transportation scene has been completely paralyzed but is eventually starting to get back on track slowly with limited means. However, throughout these said periods, many people are starting to go and consider biking as an alternative means for physical activity and buying essential needs. With its health and environmental benefits already established even before the start of the pandemic, SM Supermalls has exerted interesting ways to provide safety and convenience to bike commuters and enthusiasts in its shopping malls.
Through its SM Cares program, the largest chain of shopping malls in the Philippines has rolled out its Bike-Friendly SM initiative last September at SM Mall of Asia. Through the said initiative, SM has built a connected network of bike lanes in roads within the Mall of Asia (MOA) complex stretching up to 18 kilometers, including a dedicated bike lane along Jose W. Diokno Boulevard. The initiative will eventually roll out across all other SM Supermalls nationwide which is slated to connect SM's network of bicycle lanes to major roads across the Metro and different parts of the country. These lanes will feature bike-centric road signs based on the standards implemented by the National Association of City Transportation Officials in member major cities within the United States of America.

In addition, SM will increase its bike parking capacity by 50 percent, with additional bike racks and new street-level bike parking zones steps away from mall and shop entrances. Repair stations will be installed in strategic locations in order to assist the pedaling public for emergencies and maintenance and will be equipped with a bike stand, floor pump and essential tools for customers to use for free. Bikers can leave their helmets at designated helmet depositories while purchasing their preferred essentials for their bikes such as bike tubes, lights/blinkers, bike locks, repair kits and tire patch kits at "bike vendo" machines. There is also a separate vending machine for hydration and energy snacks. Furthermore, SM will also conduct information sessions on road safety, first aid, basic bike repair, and biker and motorist etiquette with the help of local biking communities.

"By transforming our malls into bike-friendly establishments, we hope to support inclusive and safe mobility, and promote the culture of cycling. It is part of a comprehensive plan to make communities where SM malls are located more inclusive, livable and sustainable," said SM Engineering, Design and Development President Hans Sy Jr. who conceptualized and spearheaded the initiative. "We have designed our bike facilities to be enjoyed by all members of the community across all ages and biking abilities, whether it be for utilitarian or recreational purposes."