DOTr allocates ₱89.1 million to replace 'Mt. Kamuning' footbridge
The infamous “Mt. Kamuning” footbridge (Santi San Juan/MANILA BULLETIN)
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is allocating ₱89.13 million to replace the EDSA-Kamuning Footbridge in Quezon City, also known as Mt. Kamuning due to its high elevation, with a more accessible and commuter-friendly structure.
In a bidding notice, the DOTr stated that the project encompasses the design and construction of the footbridge, as well as the improvement of the nearby busway station.
The agency has invited contractors, particularly those who have completed similar projects, to participate in the competitive bidding process.
The winning bidder is required to complete the project within 180 days.
The DOTr will hold a pre-bid conference for interested parties on July 18, with the bid opening on July 30.
The nine-meter-high Mt. Kamuning, which spans both EDSA and the railway line of Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3), has long been criticized for being unwelcoming to commuters due to its steep incline.
The footbridge was the butt of jokes among netizens, with some likening the climb across the structure to mountain hiking.
Built in 2018, the ₱ 10-million Mt. Kamuning project was overseen by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority as a measure to protect pedestrians from potential accidents along the busy EDSA.
Based on reports, the MMDA defended the design of the footbridge, arguing that it was only meant to be a “temporary” structure. Seven years onward, the footbridge remained the same.
Last month, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. ordered the removal of Mt. Kamuning for being steep and inaccessible for commuters, particularly senior citizens and persons with disability (PWD).
“Malinaw naman ang utos ng Pangulo na gawing mas convenient ang facilities natin para sa pedestrians at commuters. At ‘yan ang gagawin natin, sisiguruhin natin na ‘yung ipapalit na overpass ay mas madali para sa mga kakabayan natin,” said Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon.
(The President's directive is clear to make our facilities more convenient for pedestrians and commuters. And that's exactly what we’ll do, we’ll make sure that the new overpass will be easier to use for our countrymen).
The DOTr is eyeing the construction of a lower footbridge with attached elevators, which will be connected to the GMA-Kamuning EDSA Busway station.
The project is expected to begin construction this year.