The People's Committee of the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong has approved an investment policy for the Bao Loc - Lien Khuong expressway (phase 1) under the public-private partnership (PPP) model.

The projected 73.62 - km expressway will begin in Loc Phat ward, Bao Loc city, and end at its connection with the Lien Khuong - Prenn expressway in Hiep Thanh commune, Duc Trong district. 

When fully completed, the expressway will feature four lanes and two emergency stop lanes, with a roadbed width of 24.75 m, and an allowed maximum speed limitted to 100 km/ha.  

The project (phase 1)'s total investment capital is estimated at VND17.718 trillion (nearly $691 million), including VND7.761 trillion (around $303 million), or 43.8% of the total, to be sourced from the State budget. The remaining VND9.957 trillion (over $388 million), or 56.2% will be mobilized by investor.

The Provincial People's Committee will select an investor through open domestic bidding, with incentives provided according to current regulations. The investor selection process is expected to conduct in 2025.

Upon completion, the Bao Loc - Lien Khuong Expressway will be a key segment of the expressway network from Dau Giay (in southern province of Dong Nai) to Lien Khuong, as outlined in a plan which had been approved by the Prime Minister.

The project aims to enhance connectivity with the national transport system, reduce travel time between the Central Highlands and the Southern Key Economic Region, which includes Ho Chi Minh City and the provinces of Dong Nai, Ba Ria - Vung Tau, Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc and Tay Ninh; and improve access to economic and industrial hubs along National Highway 20. It is expected to contribute significantly to regional economic development and integration.