The NLEX-SLEX Connector project of the DPWH is in full swing. We’ve seen quite a lot of progress in recent months and the agency has announced that one of its segments will open very soon. Targeting the period “before Holy Week”, the Caloocan-Espana segment is set to be opened to the public.
DPWH green-lights Caloocan-Espana segment’s opening
Photo: DPWH
Following an inspection on March 1, the Department of Public Works and Highways gave the “OK” for the opening of the segment connecting Caloocan and Espana. This segment will cover 5.15 kilometers and will have 4 lanes that extend from C3 Road in Caloocan to the Interchange along Espana Boulevard in Manila.
“We are targeting to open the España Section before Holy Week to help decongest vehicular traffic in Metro Manila especially to and from the Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela (Camanava) area,” said Manuel M. Bonoan, Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary.
Photo: DPWH
Overall, the NLEX-SLEX Connector will span a length of 8 kilometers and upon completion will link the end of Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 to the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) in Sta. Mesa. It’s seen to reduce travel time between SLEX-Alabang and NLEX-Balintawak from 2 hours to only 20 minutes once it is complete.
“Construction of the second section stretching from España Boulevard to Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta Mesa is being fast-track to provide trucks with an alternative route from the ports to the south and improve connectivity between Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark International Airport,” Secretary Bonoan later added.
Photo: DPWH
The PHP 23.2B DPWH project is looking pretty good, truth be told. Yes, it has had its share of some hiccups and difficulties, flyover decommissioning, traffic rerouting, and road closures included, but in the greater scheme of things, these roadways are being built to help the motoring public. That said, we hope that the greater scheme of things does include the welfare of public and active transport commuters as well.
For now, eyes are on the opening of the Caloocan-Espana segment, and its set opening couldn’t come at a better time with thousands of vehicles bound for an exodus come Holy Week.
