Panama Prepares $300 Million Tender to Expand Key Highways

The Ministry of Public Works is moving forward with ambitious plans to alleviate traffic congestion on two of Panama's most critical arteries: the Centenario highway and the Arraiján-La Chorrera highway. These routes are currently straining under the weight of approximately 26,000 and 20,000 vehicles daily, respectively, leading to persistent gridlock, particularly during peak hours.

The proposed expansion is substantial, aiming to widen the Centenario highway from four to six lanes and the Arraiján-La Chorrera highway from six to eight lanes. A key feature of this project will be the addition of an express toll lane, funded by user fees, which will then contribute to the ongoing maintenance of these vital roads. This innovative funding model aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the infrastructure.

Unlike other projects that undergo a pre-qualification process, this tender will be published directly, streamlining the procurement procedure. The MOP anticipates releasing the tender documents next month, with the aim of issuing the order to proceed by the end of the year. This aggressive timeline underscores the urgency with which Panama is addressing its infrastructure challenges, seeking to improve mobility and support economic growth.

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It is foreseen that these lanes will be connected to a toll system and become express lanes, so that this money will subsequently be used for a road maintenance fund.