Cycling lanes of 32 km, costing Dh67 million
DUBAI 01 October 2017: The completion rate in the Cycling and Running Tracks at Mushrif, Midriff and Al Khawaneej Project had reached 90 per cent.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) anticipated that the 32 km project would be fully completed as early as this November.
“Our aim is to provide an infrastructure at residential districts that encourages residents to practice sport, in view of its immense health benefits to people. The project is also part of a master plan developed by RTA for providing dedicated cycling & running tracks covering the entire Emirate that can be used as environment-friendly mobility means for cycling enthusiasts. Advanced countries and communities pay much attention to raising the proportion of trips made by walking and cycling sport,” said Al Tayer.
“The project involves the construction of cycling tracks extending 32 km at Mushrif, Midriff and Al Khawaneej along with 2 bridges for the combined use of cyclists & pedestrians on Al Khawaneej and the Academic City Streets costing Dh67million.
“The selection of these areas was based on several criteria highlighted by the population density, appeal to cyclists & pedestrians, suitability of locations and the traffic safety level. Moreover, lanes have been designed in such a way that ensures the safety and security of cyclists,” explained Al Tayer.
“Over the past years, RTA had constructed biking lanes extending 218 km covering Seih Assalam/Bab Al Shams/Al Qudra Street, Dubai Water Canal, Jumeirah Street, King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud Street and Al Mankhool Street. Additionally, RTA is currently undertaking the construction of cycling lanes extending 32 km at Mushrif, Midriff and Al Khawaneej, which are expected to be completed this November.
“RTA is planning to construct more cycling tracks extending as long as 234 km during 2018-2021. These lanes will pass through several areas including Al Warqaa, Jumeirah Beach, Nad Al Sheba, Expo 2020, Downtown, Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, Al Karama, Oud Metha, Hor Al Anz, Al Qusais and Al Barsha. This brings the total length of cycling lanes in Dubai to about 500 km by 2021,” added Al Tayer.