LOOK: SM North Opens Concourse for EDSA Busway Commuters
For a safer, more efficient commute.
(SPOT.ph) Anyone who has ever taken the EDSA Bus Carousel knows how efficient it can be—once you’re on board. Getting to the actual bus stop? That’s a different battle that often involves long walks and several flights of stairs. Fortunately, steps are being taken to improve the commuter experience—starting with a newly opened station and concourse at one of the busiest locations along EDSA.
Starting March 13, the new SM North EDSA Station can be accessed through a concourse linked to the mall. With this setup, commuters no longer need to climb outdoor footbridges to catch a bus. Instead, they can head straight to the busway waiting area through a covered, well-lit path.
The new concourse connects Level 2 of SM North EDSA, near Cinnabon and Krispy Kreme, to SM Cyber West on the southbound side of EDSA.
Also read: EDSA Bus Lane Will Close for 24/7 Construction, DPWH Confirms
EDSA Busway concourse at SM North EDSA
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon emphasized how much of a difference this kind of infrastructure can make for Filipino commuters who ride the bus every day.
“Napakalaking bagay po ng oras. Ang malungkot, wala tayong oras ngayon—wala nang oras ang mga kababayan natin,” Dizon said during the launch, adding that there are plans to replicate the SM North EDSA Busway concourse for the entire EDSA Carousel system.
“Gagayahin na lang natin ‘to. Ang ganda 'di ba? Bakit pa tayo mag-iisip? Alam naman natin ire-rehab ang EDSA... Sasabay na kami, aayusin na namin para pagdating ng next year, hindi lang tayo magkakaroon ng magandang EDSA dahil sa gagawin ng DPWH, gaganda na rin pati yung busway natin.”
The concourse features stairs, escalators, and elevators—and yes, they’re all operational (for now). These additions make it easier for everyone, including persons with disabilities (PWDs), senior citizens, and those carrying luggage, to reach the buses without hassle.
One particularly useful addition is a fare matrix board, which provides a quick guide to ticket prices for different destinations. This is especially helpful for first-time riders who may not be familiar with the EDSA Carousel.
More to follow
The SM North EDSA Busway Concourse is the first in a series of initiatives by DOTr and SM Prime Holdings. Plans are underway for similar facilities at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City and SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, with the SM Megamall concourse expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
For now, at least, catching a bus along EDSA just got a little easier.
Also read: Steer Clear of the EDSA Bus Lane or Risk Getting a Minimum P5,000 Fine