MMDA to close one lane of Cubao underpass

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will close the southbound lane of the Cubao underpass in Quezon City for two weekends starting on Friday.

Crews will lay concrete blocks along the 200-meter passageway that the MMDA expects will help ensure a smooth flow of traffic.

Work will run for two weekends starting at 11 p.m. on Friday until 5 a.m. on Monday, and then again on March 2 and 5, according to Cora Cruz, the MMDA’s assistant general manager for planning.

Cruz said road signs have already been installed on five strategic areas before approaching the Cubao underpass to advise motorists to take detours.

She said two weekends are needed for the re-blocking and the concrete to set. Work was also scheduled on weekends, when traffic is relatively light unlike ordinary weekdays.

Cruz appealed to the public for patience, saying motorists and commuters will soon see the benefits. "Motorists and riding public can expect a smoother ride on EDSA once the project is completed until the end of March this year," she said in a statement.

She advised the motorists heading south to avoid the area and use alternate routes such as North Avenue, East Avenue, Aurora Boulevard, West Avenue and Monte de Piedad in Quezon City.

Cruz said by Saturday, one lane of the Cubao underpass would be passable to vehicles while another lane would be opened to traffic on Monday.