QC pledges P20 M for road plan

The Quezon City government has pledged P20 million to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the acquisition of the road right of way that would link Commonwealth Avenue extension to Quirino Highway in Novaliches.

Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said negotiations have started for the purchase of the 18,624 square meters property of Phinma Property Holdings Corp. worth P140 million for the proposed road right of way.

He also requested the Department of Budget and Management to allocate P120 million in the department’s 2009 budget, which will represent the national government’s share in the purchase of property.

Belmonte sent a letter to Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya seeking the department’s favorable action to finally complete the Commonwealth Avenue extension.

“Connecting Commonwealth Avenue to Quirino Highway is a 15-year-old dream,” Belmonte said.

The construction of the project is covered by a World Bank financial package, will lapse in March 2009.