The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has undertaken improvement works along a major highway and a bridge in the city of Silay and the municipality of Pontevedra, Negros Occidental.
DPWH Region 6 Director Sanny Boy Oropel reported the completion of widening works along a 374-meter portion of the Silay-Lantawan Road in Silay City.
The widened road from two (2) to four (4) lanes now reduces traffic congestion and facilitates better mobility of motorists traversing the highway, particularly along Barangay Guimbala-on.
“Since this road serves as an entry point to several tourist destinations in the province, increasing its capacity will ensure a quicker and more convenient travel, which will encourage more visitors and open more economic opportunities for locals,” said Director Oropel.
Other activities on the P14-million project include provision of grouted riprap and installation of concrete barriers and pavement markings as safety features.
Another completed project is a 21-meter concrete bridge that now better connects the barangays of Canroma and Don Salvador Benedicto in the municipality of Pontevedra.
Costing P25 million, the reinforced concrete deck girder (RCDG) bridge with approaches and slope protection was built to replace the existing makeshift bamboo bridge which can only cater to small vehicles and pedestrians.
“With a sturdier bridge structure, residents of Barangay Canroma and Don Salvador Benedicto now experience unhampered transportation and improved access to essential services and establishments even during inclement weather,” said Director Oropel.
The widening along Silay-Lantawan Road and construction of the Don Salvador Benedicto bridge were undertaken by DPWH Negros Occidental 1st and 4th District Engineering Offices, respectively.