Image source: Timothy Tye FB

The RM851 million Air Itam–Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway bypass project is expected to be completed by April 2027, with construction reaching 93.19% progress as of 30 September 2026. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow gave the assurance during a site visit in Gelugor, saying the contractor, Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (CZC), has sufficient funds to complete the remaining works despite an unsuccessful land auction involving a plot near Gurney Bay.

Approximately RM50 million is needed to complete the project, which spans 5.7km and will connect Bandar Baru Air Itam and Farlim directly to the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway. The main bridge and viaduct structures have been completed, with the remaining works focusing on connecting parapets, installing road barriers and carrying out road surfacing. Additional construction teams have also been deployed to accelerate progress. The state government remains prepared to transfer the relevant Gurney Bay land to CZC or its nominated company under the existing land-swap arrangement.

The bypass, which is the first project under the Penang Transport Master Plan, is expected to shorten travelling time between Air Itam and the coastal expressway while easing congestion along Jalan Masjid Negeri and Green Lane. A multi-level U-turn flyover along the Tun Dr Lim Chong Eu Expressway is also being constructed, with completion targeted for April 2027. Both facilities will undergo the necessary technical inspections and road safety audits before being opened to traffic. The state has yet to quantify the expected reduction in traffic on existing roads, with further studies needed to assess its impact.

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