A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may include, for example, receiving from a wireless device a request for a network connection and facilitating, in response to the request, a communication session between a wireless access node in communication with the wireless device and a packet data network. Control signals are exchanged between a second network device and a packet data network gateway. The second network device includes a mobility anchoring function and operating in an evolved packet core of a long term evolution system. Eligibility of the wireless communication device to participate in a direct tunnel connection is determined, the direct tunnel allowing transfer of user data packets between the wireless device and packet data network to bypass the mobility anchoring function. Establishment of the direct tunnel connection is facilitated to transfer multiple user data packets between the wireless device and the packet data network.