The project will add new entry and exit ramps to improve the movement of motorists, workers and goods between Tarlac and major economic centers, supporting the Marcos administration's infrastructure and regional growth agenda.
BCDA president and CEO Joshua Bingcang said the expansion was intended to benefit communities and businesses beyond BCDA-administered properties.
"This project is about connecting people and businesses to opportunities," Bingcang said.
"When we improve connectivity, we make it easier for people to get to work, businesses to move goods, and investments to reach communities," he added.
New access ramps
The expansion includes the construction of a 624-meter, two-lane entry ramp for motorists heading toward Baguio City or the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).
A 242-meter, one-lane additional exit ramp and a 681-meter, two-lane exit ramp will also be built to improve access to Tarlac City and neighboring municipalities.
The project will also cover a toll plaza, drainage facilities, slope protection, utilities, streetlights and other supporting structures.
BCDA expects construction to be completed within 240 calendar days, or around the second quarter of 2027.
The expanded interchange is expected to improve connectivity to major economic and development areas in and around Tarlac, including Luisita Industrial Park, Ayala Land's Crescendo estate and Aboitiz InfraCapital's TARI Estate.
Supporting Tarlac growth
Tarlac Gov. Christian Tell Yap said the additional access would benefit companies transporting products northward while making it easier for residents to reach the Luisita area.
"[This] will not only benefit the companies who will gain better accessibility to the north for their products, but also benefit our constituents in the province," Yap said.
He said improved access could reduce travel time and bring residents closer to jobs, businesses and other economic activities as development in the province continues.
The interchange expansion forms part of BCDA's efforts to improve strategic access points along SCTEX and strengthen connectivity across Central Luzon.
BCDA expects better road links to facilitate the movement of people, goods and investments and help attract more economic activity to communities in the region.
"Our goal is to build infrastructure that creates value beyond the boundaries of our own properties," Bingcang said.
"A stronger Tarlac means a stronger Central Luzon, and better connectivity is an important part of making that happen," he added. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
