Traffic on SLEX improves; new traffic scheme announced

South Luzon Expressway looking northbound from Susana Heights (Photo: Patrickroque01 at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0)

MANILA — As traffic on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) continues to improve with the opening of a new Alabang viaduct-Skyway ramp and the reopening of the third at-grade lane of the Skyway last December 1, SLEX management is introducing a new scheme to further ensure a much smoother flow of traffic with the ongoing construction of the Skyway Extension Project.

“We’ve seen a big improvement in the flow of traffic at the SLEX this past week. Traffic moves quickly even during peak rush hours, and there is no longer a sea of cars on the SLEX,” SMC President and COO Ramon S.

Ang said.

The 180-meter, two-lane ramp, which has a capacity of 5,000 vehicles per hour, and the reopened at-grade lane, has effectively increased the number of northbound lanes from the Alabang viaduct to five, from just three.

“Nevertheless, I have directed all our personnel to continue to closely monitor the traffic situation so we can make necessary adjustments quickly, particularly in areas prone to heavy traffic,” he added.

The new ramp, Ang said, has the “advantage of flexibility.” Its configuration can be changed to either two-way traffic, or single-direction traffic depending on traffic conditions.

For example, during peak or rush hours in the morning, both lanes can be opened for northbound use.

During peak or rush hours in the afternoon, both lanes can serve southbound motorists.

Traffic rerouting

Motorists are advised that the Alabang-Zapote Road Elevated On and Off-Ramp near Bunye South Station, will be closed from Monday to Saturday, starting December 9, at the following times:

Northbound – 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Southbound – 6 p.m. to 8 a.m.

During these times when the Alabang-Zapote Road Elevated On-Ramp is closed, motorists headed to the northbound elevated Skyway must use the ramp before the Sucat area.

Meanwhile, southbound motorists must use the new ramp at the Alabang viaduct.

Motorists headed to Alabang or the Alabang-Zapote road can exit at the Filinvest Toll plaza.