The mall’s concourses with bridgeways will complement the DOTr’s innovative Edsa Busway initiative.
Commuters will soon be able to enjoy a safer, more comfortable, and more convenient travel experience along the country’s main thoroughfare with the construction of the Edsa Busway Concourses located at the SM North Edsa, SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia.
The mall’s concourses will complement the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) innovative Edsa Busway initiative, meant to provide safe and convenient access to the Edsa Busway Stations.
Commuters can look forward to state-of-the-art design and facilities, as well as a concierge, ticketing booths and turnstiles for the Automatic Fare Collection System which will allow transactions to take place at the concourses. Ramps and elevators will provide easy access for commuters, especially for persons with disabilities, senior citizens and pregnant women.
DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade and SM Prime president Jeffrey Lim lead the virtual groundbreaking ceremony of the Edsa Busway Concourses at SM North Edsa, SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia.
Inspired by traditional bamboo, the new Edsa footbridges combine beauty and function, while keeping in touch with the Filipino identity. Tubular steel frames simulate the flexibility and strength of bamboo, while the flanking planting strips provide openness and greenery, serving as a buffer area between the walkways and the edges of the footbridge.
Commuters can look forward to state-of-the-art design and facilities at the concourses, complete with a concierge, ticketing booths and turnstiles for the Automatic Fare Collection System.
All of these are covered by a gable roof resembling traditional ethnic bamboo structures. The addition of angled louvers provides further protection from the rains. Pedestrians get to walk through a bridgeway brimming with natural light and ventilation, while unencumbered by the natural elements.
In addition to funding the construction of the concourses and bridgeways, SM will ensure that these are properly secured and well-maintained for the safety and convenience of all passengers and pedestrians.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and SM Prime president Jeffrey Lim led the virtual groundbreaking ceremony to mark the beginning of construction of the concourses at the three SM Malls. Joining them were Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benhur Abalos, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Chairman Atty. Martin Delgra, and busway advocate and Green Edsa Movement Chairman Eduardo Yap, who conceptualized the Edsa Busway concourses.
With the Edsa Busway concourses, SM hopes to contribute to the government’s effort to improve the commuting experience of every Filipino through sustainable and inclusive urban transport reform.