Tollways expansion hinges on new rail projects - MPTC

The tollways arm of the Metro Pacific Group is stepping on the brakes on its plan to build an elevated road on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), concerned that the completion of new rails would reduce traffic in the next decade.

- By ELIJAH FELICE ROSALES

Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. (MPTC) is planning its roadmap ahead for NLEX to mitigate traffic congestion in the segment between Balintawak and Marilao, Bulacan.

MPTC president and CEO Gilbert Santa Maria said the company is looking at building an elevated tollway called NLEX Air to provide an alternative, but costlier, thoroughfare for motorists.

Initial estimates obtained by The STAR in 2024 showed that putting up NLEX Air, spanning the Balintawak Toll Plaza and Tambubong Interchange, could cost up to P70 billion. As such, MPTC is studying if the projected revenue from NLEX Air could cover the cost of constructing it.