NLEX Tambobong interchange in Bocaue now open

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Aerial view of NLEX Tambobong Interchange | Photo cou DPWH
Aerial view of NLEX Tambobong Interchange | Photo courtesy of DPWH

The new North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) Tambobong Interchange in Bocaue, Bulacan opened today (July 2), according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The new interchange will offer another alternative for commuters at Bocaue Interchange bound for Sta. Maria, Norzagaray, Angat and Pandi in eastern Bulacan.

“The completion of this new route is vital to fulfilling our goal of improving roads leading to growth corridors. We are delighted to let our commuters know that we are able to provide traffic congestion relief and reduce travel time between the NLEX and eastern Bulacan towns,” Public Works Secretary Mark Villar said in a statement.

The new interchange features a two-lane southbound entry, a two-lane northbound entry, and a three-lane northbound exit. It has three exclusive RFID (radio-frequency identification) lanes to encourage cashless and faster transactions.

“With these new access roads, we are expecting to enhance mobility within the Bulacan road network and help alleviate the heavy traffic situation at the Bocaue Interchange,” said J. Luigi Bautista, president and general manager of concessionaire NLEX Corp.

Heightened commercial activities and real estate development in Bocaue and Sta. Maria have contributed largely to vehicle growth along that corridor.

DPWH Region 3 director Roseller Tolentino said “the new interchange is expected to reduce travel time and complement other developments in Bulacan such as the proposed airport and mega city.”

In 2018, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry cited Bulacan as one of the emerging viable business destinations in Luzon considering its proximity to Metro Manila and upcoming major infrastructure projects.

Last year, the provincial government announced the construction of a 400-hectare mega city traversing the municipalities of Pandi, Bocaue, and Balagtas comprising manufacturing firms, call centers, warehouses, outlet stores, and a shopping mall.

Included in the DPWH Bulacan road network enhancements is the ongoing construction of a new bridge at the Bocaue Interchange and the Balagtas Interchange SB exit (Plaridel bypass road) to better accommodate growing traffic.

DPWH and NLEX Corp. opened the Philippine Arena Interchange and Balagtas Northbound Entry last year to make travel easier and more comfortable for motorists. The tollway company likewise completed in 2019 the girder strengthening, and deck slab replacement of the Bocaue River Bridge aimed at further ensuring the safety and convenience of the public.