The New Access Road to Ecozone in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte

COURTESY: Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)

Hey there, road trip enthusiasts and future moguls! Have you heard the latest buzz about the new access road leading to the Nasipit Agusan del Norte Industrial Estate – Special Economic Zone (NANIE-SEZ)? Well, buckle up because The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is on it! Yep, you heard right. They’re constructing a game-changing 39.81-kilometer access road under the Roads Leveraging Linkages of Trade and Industry (ROLL-IT) Program. This project is a big deal, folks, and it's in convergence with the Department of Trade and Industries (DTI). 

Now, if you’re wondering why this road is such a hot topic, let me break it down for you. This isn’t just any road; it’s a lifeline that will connect the special economic zone in Nasipit to vital trade points and market centers. Imagine zipping down a road that leads you straight to the Port of Nasipit, the Bancasi Airport, and even Butuan City! And guess what? As of the first quarter of 2024, they’ve already hit 30% completion. Talk about making headway!

Alright, let’s talk numbers, shall we? According to DPWH Regional Office 13 Director Pol M. Delos Santos, the project has already churned out 7.45 kilometers of serviceable concrete and gravel roads. That’s 30% of the total P3.21 billion project cost knocked out in just a few years, thanks to the General Appropriations Act (GAA) funds amounting to P762.65 million released from 2018 to 2023. 

And it’s not just about laying down some asphalt. This road means business! Completed sections are equipped with road slope protections, lined canal drainages, and metal guardrails to ensure safety. So, whether you’re a local or someone just passing through, you can breathe easy knowing that this road is built to last.

Now, let’s get to the juicy part: why should you care about this road? Well, for starters, this access road is expected to be a major economic booster for the Caraga Region. The NANIE-SEZ is a 62-hectare playground that’s ripe for development. With the road in place, it’ll be easier for investors to bring their A-game and develop this fertile land. 

But wait, there's more! This road isn’t just about attracting investors; it’s also about making life easier for everyone. Efficient transport of people, goods, and services means better business, smoother commutes, and generally happier people. With the Port of Nasipit just 100 meters away, the Bancasi Airport a 30-minute ride, and Butuan City proper at 25 kilometers, everything you need is just a hop, skip, and a jump away.

Okay, so what’s the timeline looking like? The DPWH is eyeing December 2027 for the grand finale. That’s when the NANIE-SEZ Access Road is expected to be fully operational. But don’t think for a second that you have to wait until then to start reaping the benefits. With 30% already done and dusted, the road portions currently open are already making life easier for residents of Nasipit town.

So, what’s the takeaway here? The new access road to the Ecozone in Nasipit, Agusan del Norte, is more than just a construction project. It's a symbol of progress, a beacon of economic growth, and a promise of better connectivity. Whether you’re an investor looking for your next big venture or a local resident eager to see your community thrive, this road is paving the way for a brighter future.

Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project unfolds. Until then, keep dreaming big and driving safe!