RTA opens cycle tracks in 3 residential districts next month

The Roads and Transport Authority, RTA, is gearing up for the opening of cycle tracks stretching 32 km in Mushrif, Mirdif and Al Khawaneej early next month (February).

The project includes the construction of two bridges for the combined use of cyclists and pedestrians over Al Khawaneej and Academic City Streets. The project cost amounts to AED67 million.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the RTA, said, "The construction of cycling and running tracks in Dubai is a manifestation of the directives of the Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It is also an implementation of the instructions of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, to provide suitable options for encouraging residents to practice sports exercises and cycling. We aim to provide residential districts with an infrastructure that encourages residents to practice sports as it has immense health benefits to people.

The project is 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 focus on raising the proportion of trips made by walking and cycling," he added.

"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, tracks are designed in such a way that ensures the safety and security of cyclists," explained Al Tayer.

"Over the past years, the RTA had constructed cycle tracks 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 tracks extending 32 km at Mushrif, Midrif and Al Khawaneej.

"RTA is planning to construct more cycle tracks extending as long as 234 km during 2018-2021. These tracks will pass through several areas including Al Warqaa, Jumeirah Beach, Nad Al Sheba, Expo 2020 site, Downtown, Jebel Ali, Al Quoz, Al Karama, Oud Metha, Hor Al Anz, Al Qusais and Al Barsha. As such, the total length of cycle tracks in Dubai to about 500 km by 2021," added Al Tayer.