We previously reported about the NLEX Connector drone footage shared by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) showing its progress as of August 2021. A month later, the government agency is pleased to announce that the first section of the project from Caloocan to España is nearly halfway done at 45 percent.
The NLEX Connector will play a key role in Metro Manila upon completion
With a project cost of Php 23 billion, the NLEX Connector is composed of two sections running from Caloocan Interchange to Santa Mesa. The first section covers areas between the Harbor Link-Caloocan Interchange along C-3 Road/5th Avenue and España in Sampaloc, Manila. DPWH is expediting the progress by acquiring the right-of-way (ROW) for the first section.
“The first section of NLEX Connector from Caloocan Interchange to España Boulevard is nearly halfway done. We are targeting to deliver the right-of-way (ROW) for this section by next month so we can further accelerate the project,” said DPWH Secretary Mark A. Villar.
DPWH is acquiring ROW for the first section
NLEX Corporation shared that it is using the Indonesian technology called Sosrobahu in launching coping beams or pierheads within the construction site. Super T girders are also used by the toll company to fast-track the completion of the project which is slated for 2022.
Upon completion, the NLEX Connector is targeted to accommodate 35,000 motorists daily, reducing travel time from NLEX to SLEX to just 20 minutes. Additionally, it is expected to alleviate infamous traffic conditions in Metro Manila alongside the Skyway Stage 3 via their ramps around the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Santa Mesa.
“We continue to find opportunities and improve the way we do things to accelerate the construction of the NLEX Connector. We are optimistic that the construction technology that we are employing will increase efficiency and boost productivity at the site,” said NLEX Corporation President and General Manager J. Luigi L. Bautista
It is expected to be completed by 2022
On the other hand, the construction of the NLEX Connector second section between España Interchange and the vicinity of the PUP is said to begin within this year.
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