Baja California to continue US$740mn road project

Baja California state in northwestern Mexico is moving forward with a two-year road infrastructure program that includes six projects in seven municipalities near Tijuana, requiring total initial investments of 15 billion pesos (around $740 million) in the first stage.

The program was initially presented in April, and authorities have already begun work on two of the six projects, with studies underway for another. Updates on the remaining initiatives have yet to be announced.

On January 23, the infrastructure, communications and transport ministry (SICT) will receive bids for the socioeconomic feasibility and market studies for a project to widen Alberto Limón Padilla boulevard, which links to the US border via the Otay Mesa II port of entry, on which works are currently underway. The tender, launched on January 10, does not specify when the contract will be awarded, suggesting it will be decided after the bids are presented.

One of the projects that has already begun is the 250-million-peso initiative to link Alamar and Terán Terán boulevards in Tijuana. Works began on October 25 after the contract was awarded to a local company, according to state authorities. The development involves building a bridge with access to the two avenues and the works are expected to be completed within 12 months.

Construction has also started on an 800-meter overpass on boulevard Casa Blanca, which connects Tijuana and Rosarito. Works began in September, according to local daily El Sol de Tijuana.