In Negros Occidental, the Bacolod Silay Airport Access Road (BSAAR) is now opened as alternative route traversing from the city of Bacolod going to the international airport of the province.

Under Secretary Rafael Yabut attended the inauguration. Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benetiz and Rep. Evelio Leonardia led the cutting of the ribbons and declared BSAAR officially opened at 3:06 p.m. November 15, 2013.

According to Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, BSAAR will create new growth areas between Bacolod to Silay City that will further enhance to the economic development not only in the province of Negros but to the whole country as well.

The new opened highway that slashes across sugarcane fields about 10.2-kilometers starting from the city of Bacolod pass through the city of Talisay and finished in Silay City includes 6-bridges and 5-road intersections with traffic lights. Passing through BSAAR will reduce travel time about 10-minutes depending upon the speed of the vehicle which is normally 25-30 minutes through the coastal road.

BSAAR project budget amounting P415.8 million, which is lower compared to the proposed extension going to Victorias City estimated cost amounting to P800 million which could be started between 2014 and will be opened by 2015, explained Benitez.

Installation of street lights will be next year as per funding budget included on 2014 in line to the Road Board, he added.