NLEX Corp. on Friday opened an interchange to provide another access to the public traveling to and from Bocaue and other eastern Bulacan towns.
Being implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways and NLEX Corp., the new Tambubong Interchange aims to decongest traffic at the Bocaue Interchange by serving as an alternate route going to NLEX from Sta. Maria, Angat, Pandi and vice versa.
“Our motorists may now travel with ease and bypass the congestion along Gov. Halili Road in Bocaue as we are opening these entry and exit roads that will link NLEX to the eastern parts of Bulacan,” Public Works Secretary Mark Villar said, citing that building new roads leading to growth corridors was included in the agency’s strategic infrastructure program.
The Tambubong Interchange features a two-lane, 290-meter southbound entry; a two-lane, 180-meter northbound entry; and a three-lane, 240-meter northbound exit.
“With these new access roads, we are expecting to enhance mobility within the Bulacan road network and help alleviate heavy traffic conditions at the Bocaue Interchange,” said J. Luigi Bautista, NLEX president and general manager.
“Through the years, vehicles coming from and bound for the towns of Bocaue and Sta. Maria have grown due to their booming industries and heightened economic activities. The new interchange is expected to reduce travel time and complement other developments in Bulacan,” DPWH Region 3 director Roseller Tolentino added.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2018 cited the province as one of the viable business destinations in Luzon considering its proximity to Metro Manila and upcoming major infrastructure projects, including the proposed international airport.
The provincial government of Bulacan last year announced that a 400-hectare mega city traversing the municipalities of Pandi, Bocaue and Balagtas would also be built which comprised of manufacturing firms, warehouses, business process outsourcing companies, outlet stores and a shopping mall.
“We are glad that several projects are underway which will greatly benefit our province and provide more opportunities for our people,” said Bulacan 2nd District Rep. Gavini Pancho, who is proactively pushing for new access roads in the province.
Also included in the Bulacan road network enhancements is the ongoing construction of an additional bridge at the Bocaue Interchange to better accommodate the growing traffic.