New flyover shortens travel time between Bacolod, Bago City

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Tuesday opened a new two-lane flyover along Araneta Avenue, which crosses Magsaysay Avenue, in Negros Occidental's Bacolod City.

The DPWH said that construction of the P32-million flyover began on April 2017. The flyover was 7.5 meters wide and 280 lineal meters long. It was constructed using "prefabricated modular steel technology" from Matiere S.A.S., which was provided by the French Government through an assistance program.

The new flyover was expected to cut travel time from downtown Bacolod City to Bago City.

Public Works Secretary Mark Villar also explained in a statement that the flyover would eliminate traffic congestion along the intersection of Araneta Avenue and Magsaysay Avenue.

The reduction of heavy traffic along the intersection had the added benefit of reducing carbon emissions from vehicles.

During the inauguration, Villar and Public Works Undersecretary Emil Sadain commended the city government of Bacolod and the DPWH's unified project management offices staff for the project's  completion.

French Embassy Economic Counselor Laurent Estrade, DPWH Region 6 OIC-Director Wenceslao Leaño Jr., Bacolod City District Representative Greg Gasataya, and Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia were also present at the ceremony. — Margaret Claire Layug/DVM, GMA News