Roads closed for LRT-2, MRT-7 construction

MANILA, Philippines — Motorists were warned of heavy traffic as roads are set to be closed starting tonight to allow for the constructionof the new platform for the Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2) and the road repainting in connection with the ongoing construction of the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7). 

In its project brief, D. M. Consunji Inc. (DMCI), the contractor of the LRT-2 extension project, said it would start the construction of platform of the LRT-2’s Emerald Station, which is near Sta. Lucia East Grand Mall and Robinsons Metro East on Marcos Highway.

The construction, which would include lifting of heavy materials and equipment and concreting, would continue until this October, said DMCI project manager Nilo Rey.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said DMCI should conduct construction works and close either lane – which will cover a 50-meter stretch of Marcos Highway – from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. the following day, according to MMDA officer–in–charge general manager Jose Arturo Garcia. Hence, heavy traffic would occur only at night, he said.

Garcia noted that the closure of the east and westbound lanes will alternate every two days. Starting 11 p.m. tonight, the westbound lane of Marcos Highway – going to Cubao – will be closed, while the eastbound lane – or approaching Marikina and Antipolo – will be closed two days after.

While the closure of either of the lanes takes place, the MMDA would implement zipper lanes on the other available lane, Garcia said.

Garcia added that motorists can use the following alternate routes to reach their destinations during the construction: Sumulong Highway in Antipolo; Gil Fernando or Tuason Avenue, Dela Paz and A. Bonifacio Avenue in Marikina City; and Ortigas Avenue Extension.

Meanwhile, Regalado Highway in Quezon City will also be closed from 11 p.m. tonight to 4 a.m. on Monday, the MMDA advised.

During this period, private contractor EEI Corp. would repaint the lanes on the road in line with the ongoing construction of the MRT-7.

Motorists going to San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan are advised to drive along either Mindanao Avenue or Regalado Avenue, the agency said.

On the other hand, motorists going to Quezon Memorial Circle should take Quirino Highway and Commonwealth Avenue or Belfast Street and Mindanao Avenue. – Louella Desiderio