Right-of-way for NLEX Connector project 81% complete, says DPWH

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPHW) and NLEX Corporation are targeting to finish the construction of the eight-kilometer toll road connecting North Luzon Expressway to South Luzon Expressway by the end of the year as right-of-way issues are gaining significant progress.

“Right-of-way delivery for the whole alignment stands at 81%, while construction progress is at 16%. With the commitment of both the public and private sectors, we are optimistic that we can finish the project as scheduled,” Public Works Secretary Mark Villar said in a statement.

The NLEX Connector road project is an all-vehicle class elevated expressway which will traverse the Caloocan Interchange, 5th Avenue/C3 Road in Caloocan City passing through España, and eventually link up with the Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 at PUP Sta. Mesa in Manila.

For its part, NLEX Corp. said it is installing “Super T” beam girders, which span 30 meters and weigh 53 tons.

It said compared to other types of girders, Super T beams are more flexible, structurally efficient, and aesthetically appealing.

Super T beams have open flanges that provide a complete working surface and reduce the need for formworks thus help fast-track the construction of the elevated expressway, according to the company.

“Innovation is one of the core values of our company. We are using Super T beams to advance our construction progress so we can soon complete this crucial infrastructure that would help decongest Metro Manila and solve truck ban woes,” NLEX Corp. president and general manager J. Luigi Bautista said.

The company said over 1,400 girders will be used for the entire Connector project.

The P23-billion NLEX Connector will feature four toll plazas and interchanges in C3 and España.

It is seen to provide better access to Manila Ports (North Harbor) and airports (NAIA and Clark), and expected to reduce travel time between NLEX and South Luzon Expressway from two hours to just 20 minutes, according to NLEX Corp.

The project will also provide trucks with 24/7 alternative routes, enabling unhampered delivery of goods and stimulating economic development in Manila, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and surrounding areas, it said. — BM, GMA News