The latest section of Mindanao Avenue Extension is almost complete

The long-running Mindanao Avenue Extension project is one step closer to completion.

According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), construction of the 1.8km section of Mindanao Avenue Extension from P. Dela Cruz Street to Gen. Luis Avenue in Caloocan City is now 90% complete. It is expected to be finished in the second quarter of 2019.

DPWH secretary Mark Villar says the agency is now coordinating with the National Housing Authority to relocate informal settlers along the road project. He added that completing the eight-lane road is vital, as it is expected to reduce travel time from the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) to Caloocan City.

“The Mindanao Avenue Extension Project has been halted for years due to road right-of-way (RROW) issues,” Villar said during an inspection at the construction site held earlier today. “From 1980 to 2014, only a total of 1.4km of the road from Mindanao Avenue to P. Dela Cruz Street was completed and opened.”

DPWH National Capital Region director Ador Canlas also added that the 320m gap before P. Dela Cruz Street will be constructed once the informal settlers are relocated. The DPWH says funding for the relocation of informal settlers is already available.

Will the government agency meet its newest self-imposed deadline? We won’t have to wait long to find out.