DPWH rushing completion of NLEX Connector project

MANILA, Philippines — The North Luzon Expressway Corp. and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) are fast-tracking the construction of the first five-kilometer section of the NLEX Connector from Caloocan Interchange to España, Manila to complete the segment by yearend.

DPWH Secretary Mark Villar said right-of-way delivery for the whole alignment stands at 81 percent while construction progress is at 16 percent.

“With the commitment of both the public and private sectors, we are optimistic that we can finish the project as scheduled,” Villar said yesterday.

NLEX said it would be utilizing Super T girders, which are used for bridges in Australia and New Zealand but relatively new in the domestic construction industry.

Compared to other types of girders, Super T beams are more flexible, structurally efficient and aesthetically appealing, according to the tollway firm.

NLEX said the structural format of a Super T provides an optimal solution to challenges posed by the project, which passes through urbanized areas where the roads are congested and the right-of-way is constrained laterally.

Over 1,400 girders will be used for the entire connector project.

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

Spanning a total of eight kilometers, the P23-billion NLEX Connector will be an all-vehicle-class elevated expressway that will traverse C-3 Road in Caloocan City, passing through Abad Santos, Blumentritt, Dimasalang, España, Magsaysay Boulevard and eventually connect to the Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 in Sta. Mesa.

The remaining three-kilometer segment to complete the entire project will be finished by next year.

The NLEX Connector will feature four toll plazas and interchanges along C-3 Road and España.

It is seen to reduce travel time between NLEX and South Luzon Expressway from two hours to 20 minutes only.

The project will also provide trucks with an alternative route around the clock, enabling unhampered delivery of goods and stimulating economic development in Manila, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and surrounding areas.