NLEX Enhances Key Stretch with Major Shoulder Upgrades
In a significant move to improve the daily commute for thousands, NLEX Corporation has completed a major project focused on clearing and regrading road shoulders along a vital section of the tollway. The work, which took place from the Harbor Link Interchange to Marilao, targets enhanced mobility and safety, particularly during the busiest travel times.
Project Details and Scope
The extensive initiative covered an impressive 10,000 linear meters in both directions. Crews worked to remove years of accumulated material, including sand, overgrown grass, and various debris. This crucial cleaning process maximizes the available space along the corridor. Furthermore, the project involved restoring the proper cross-slope of the shoulders, a technical improvement that is essential for effective rainwater drainage, helping to prevent pooling and hydroplaning risks during downpours.
To ensure a durable and high-quality result, the tollway firm added a 150-mm base course in select areas. This layer provides a much more stable and smoother surface, which is critical for vehicles that may need to use the shoulder in emergencies.
Impact on Traffic Flow and Motorist Safety
According to NLEX President and General Manager Luis S. Reñon, these upgrades serve multiple vital functions. "By clearing and upgrading the shoulders, stalled vehicles can be moved quickly for assistance or repair, while minor incidents can be cleared faster—allowing traffic to return to normal more quickly," Reñon stated. He also noted that, under the strict supervision of patrol crews, the improved shoulders may be temporarily utilized by vehicles during exceptional cases of severe congestion.
While these upgrades provide new flexibility, NLEX Corporation strongly reminds all motorists that the shoulder lane is not for parking, idling, or use as a rest area. This rule remains strictly enforced to preserve the lane for its primary safety functions. This initiative is part of the ongoing commitment by NLEX Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), to invest in infrastructure that prioritizes driver safety and traffic efficiency for the Filipino public.
