Toll Plazas, Southern Expressway

DPA Principal Partner, Prof. Janaka Wijesundara contributed as the design author and project leader to the project consultancy unit of the University of Moratuwa for the architectural design of toll plaza facilities along Sri Lanka’s Southern Expressway, supporting the creation of infrastructure that balances functional efficiency with a distinctly Sri Lankan architectural identity.

The Southern Expressway Phase I & 2, Sri Lanka’s first access-controlled expressway, introduced a new architectural identity for the country’s emerging highway infrastructure. Spanning 125.57 km from Kottawa to Pinnaduwa, the project includes 21 toll gate structures, seven toll office buildings, a Traffic Operations Centre, power houses, and ancillary facilities across eight interchanges. The architectural concept sought to integrate transportation infrastructure, technology, and cultural identity by reinterpreting the traditional Sri Lankan entrance gateway in a contemporary form. Characterized by simplicity, clarity, and durable low-maintenance materials, the buildings respond sensitively to their natural and built surroundings while meeting international expressway standards. Sculptural toll gate structures were constructed using exposed fair-faced self-compacting concrete, creating a distinctive visual identity. Landscaped roofscapes, prefabricated toll booths, and coordinated construction by multiple contractors further demonstrate innovation in design and execution, establishing a landmark public infrastructure project that seamlessly combines functionality, engineering excellence, and architectural expression.