Construction of NLEX Connector Second Section Underway

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) along with the NLEX Corporation officially held the groundbreaking for the construction of the second section of the NLEX Connector on Tuesday, December 14. This ₱23-billion extension will cover the remaining 3 kilometers of the elevated expressway project, spanning between the future España and Sta. Mesa interchanges in Manila.

The civil works contract of the project was earlier signed between NLEX Corp. and China Road and Bridges Corporation (CRBC). The entire NLEX Connector will be 8 kilometers long, which will also be utilizing the right-of-way portions of the Philippine National Railways (PNR). This looks to extend the major expressway southward and further connect NLEX with the recently completed Skyway Stage 3.

“We are committed to provide the necessary right-of-way for this project as we target to complete this segment by end of 2022,” explained DPWH Secretary Roger Mercado. The NLEX Connector will prove to offer smooth north-south travel and ultimately decongest the flow of traffic in EDSA and C5.

The route will be open 24/7 without a truck ban, which will be critical in diverting cargo trucks that usually cause congestion along major thoroughfares. Likewise, the supply chain and logistics sectors will greatly benefit from the project as it promotes the unrestricted movement of goods.

“The new elevated expressway reduces traffic congestion in the metro and offer those with private cars and commercial vehicles ease of travel,” according to Rodrigo Franco, President and CEO of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC).

“The project will enhance accessibility to international airports such as NAIA and Clark, help generate jobs, and stimulate development between Metro Manila and its surrounding provinces in the north and south,” he added.

Once the NLEX Connector has been completed, it is projected to allow 35,000 motorists to pass through the new expressway. The first section of the project — spanning between Caloocan and España interchanges — is still under construction as well, but it is already up to 60% completed.

Source: Manila Bulletin