NLEX speeds up full RFID implementation

With just 17 days to go, NLEX Corporation is ironing out physical and system improvements to ensure its NLEX-SCTEX toll plazas can transact using 100 percent Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) next month, on the November 2 deadline.

These improvements include the installation of 303 new canopy signages and 66 units of plaza lighting.

Of the 303 signages, the company completed 100 on the first week of October, with the remaining ones to be in place by December.

In addition, they are repainting the pavement markings at the toll plazas.

The lane markings and signs will help direct traffic, while the lights will increase visibility at night.

“As we fully transition to 100 percent cashless transactions, motorists can expect more improvements," pledged NLEX Corporation President and General Manager J. Luigi L. Bautista.

The tollway firm will implement an allRFID toll collection system in all expressways in the country by November 2, 2020 to comply with orders from the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

To provide an updated look on NLEXSCTEX toll plazas, the operator will also repaint the toll canopies.

The lane status indicators showing the open and closed status of toll lanes are being replaced with circular green and red cross (X) signals.

“More than the aesthetics, these enhancements are necessary to keep our facilities in good condition and guide motorists as they head on to the expressways,” the president added.

Meanwhile, the realignment of RFID sensors is underway in 32 NLEX-SCTEX toll lanes as part of the second phase of the project to enhance read range and enable faster detection.

This system improvement covers the entry and exit lanes in Valenzuela, Marilao, Bocaue, Tambobong, Balagtas, San Fernando, Tarlac, and Tipo.

Last July, the tollway company completed the realignment of sensors in 100 toll lanes.

NLEX is likewise converting this October the Tambobong, Pulilan, Mexico, Karuhatan Interchange, Sta. Rita, San Miguel (Hacienda Luisita), Concepcion, Clark South A&B, and Tipo toll plazas into exclusive RFID lanes.

Previously, it converted the Dau, Porac, Mabiga, Lawang Bato Northbound Entry, Philippine Arena toll plazas, and expansion lanes in Balintawak and Bocaue toll plazas.

The company augmented Easytrip RFID installation sites to accommodate the rising number of motorists, opening 31 sites to make it easier for motorists to get their free RFID stickers.