Widened by-pass road ensures better connection among Central Iloilo towns

Faster and more convenient transportation from the towns of Sta. Barbara, New Lucena and Zarraga in central Iloilo is now ensured with the widened by-pass road along Metro Iloilo Radial Road (R-4 By-pass Road).

The project is implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office.

Citing a report from OIC-District Engineer Mario G. Soriano, DPWH 6 Regional Director Tiburcio DL Canlas said the ₱28.946-million project funded under the District’s 2021 Regular Infrastructure Program involves the widening of a 505-lineal meter portion along R-4 by-pass road, specifically in Leganes town.

“This by-pass road is a new access road connecting the towns of Sta. Barbara, New Lucena and Zarraga, by-passing the Metro Iloilo Radial Road (R-4), which is one of the alternate routes from Iloilo City and southern Iloilo to the northern part of Iloilo and provinces of Aklan and Capiz, and vice versa,” Canlas said

“This road widening project complements the already widened portions of the 2.14-kilometer stretch by-pass road we had undertaken in the previous years,” he added.

Canlas said the widened by-pass road will help decongest the Metro Iloilo Radial Road and other major thoroughfares in the central part of Iloilo, providing motorists and commuters with a more conducive road access, shorter travel time by about 30 minutes, and reducing vehicle operation cost.

Meantime, Engr. Soriano said the project involves widening of the road from two lanes to four lanes with paved shoulder (bike lane); construction of curb and gutter, sidewalk, and slope protection on both sides; and provision of guardrails and reflectorized thermoplastic pavement markings to safeguard the motorists.

“The road will help enhance the economic activity in the towns of New Lucena, Zarraga and Sta. Barbara, since transport of goods and services will be easier and faster,” Soriano said.

“This will provide better transportation access, minimize transportation cost by reducing travel time of about 30 minutes and lesser vehicle’s operating cost, and provide a more convenient alternate access going to Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan,” he added. dpwhr6