In the Philippines, the operator of Resorts World Manila has reportedly announced that a new pedestrian bridge it is building to link a portion of Ninoy Aquino International Airport with a site near the 1,574-room property will bring big benefits to airport passengers and local commuters.
According to a report from the Philippine Daily Inquirer newspaper, Travellers International Hotel Group Incorporated has explained that its new Runway Manila air-conditioned bridge project is expected to open during the first half of next year and run 722 feet from the giant airport’s Terminal Three to a Newport City site on the other side of the busy Andrews Avenue and nearer Resorts World Manila.
“It is a privilege to collaborate with the government to enhance the overall travel experience in our country,” said Kingson Sian, President and Chief Executive Officer for Travellers International Hotel Group Incorporated, which is a joint venture between local conglomerate Alliance Global Group Incorporated and Genting Hong Kong. “Runway Manila is part of our commitment to champion Philippine tourism and to contribute in nation building.”
Travellers International Hotel Group Incorporated reportedly stated that Runway Manila will tower 59 feet above Andrews Avenue and provide pedestrians with the ability to safely and comfortably cross the eight-lane thoroughfare in only ten minutes. It is to come complete with all-day walkalators and elevators that have been designed to accommodate elderly and “differently-abled” users.
“Through Runway Manila, travelers can use Newport City as a convenient jump-off point to reach other parts of the metropolis,” read a statement from Manila-listed Travellers International Hotel Group Incorporated. “Newport City is accessible to City Link buses and other forms of public transport.”
Mark Villar, the nation’s Public Works And Highways Secretary, reportedly declared that Runway Manila has been designed to simultaneously handle up to 2,000 people or 216,000 travelers per day and will prove beneficial to the 13 million passengers that annually pass through Terminal Three of Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
“The bridge is for the benefit and free use of the public,” said Villar.
The busiest airport in the Philippines, the four terminals of Ninoy Aquino International Airport handled close to 37 million passengers last year, which is over 19% higher than their combined design capacity of about 31 million.
“The Duterte administration is fully committed not only to reducing vehicular traffic congestion but also to ensuring the mobility and liveability of our cities,” said Arthur Tugade, the nation’s Department Of Transportation Secretary. “Rest assured, this will not be the last. There will be more bicycle lanes [and] pedestrian-friendly facilities constructed.”