Chow eyes April 2027 completion for Air Itam-LCE bypass

On April 2027, Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow anticipates the completion of the Air Itam-Lim Chong Eu Expressway (LCE) bypass, a key project in the state's transport plans. The 5.7km bypass, valued at RM851 million, has made substantial progress, with 93.19% of the work completed as of September 30. Under the leadership of contractor Consortium Zenith Construction Sdn Bhd (CZC), bridge structures and viaducts have been constructed.

The remaining tasks include installing road barriers and paving the surface, set to commence at the end of the month.

Before opening to the public, the bypass must undergo a technical compliance inspection and road safety audit to meet all standards and requirements. Although there were no bidders for the auction of 2.44ha of Gurney Bay land intended for financing, CZC has pledged to cover the remaining RM50 million. In return, the state government will transfer ownership of several land lots to the firm.

Chow reassured that the project, the first under the Penang Transport Master Plan, will effectively reduce travel time and alleviate congestion along Green Lane and Jalan Masjid Negeri. Although initially planned for 2025, the project faced delays.