Seven companies bid for Panama's Santiago–Soná highway rehabilitation

Seven companies have submitted proposals for the rehabilitation of the Santiago–Soná highway in Panama's Veraguas province, a project valued at B/.22.5 million. The Ministry of Public Works (MOP) held a public opening of bids for the approximately 45-kilometer stretch of road, which connects Santiago to Soná, extending beyond the Tríbique River bridge.

The bidding process, conducted virtually via the PanamáCompra portal, saw offers ranging from B/.15,996,500.00 to B/.23,705,850.00. Among the seven proponents are Consorcio P&C Soná, Constructora Bagatrac, S.A., Consorcio Panamá Vial, ININCO, S.A., Consorcio C&T Soná, Consorcio Vial Santiago–Soná, and Consorcio CR&E Soná.

This rehabilitation project is crucial for improving the conditions of a vital transportation artery used daily by residents, producers, and transporters. The MOP anticipates that the work will enhance road safety, mobility, and accessibility throughout the region. The scope of the project includes the rehabilitation of 13 vehicular bridges along the route, including structures over the Los Chorros, Aclita, San Pablo, and Tríbique rivers, as well as over the Cocuyal and Piedra streams.

While the work will primarily follow the existing road alignment, it will also involve specific improvements to the horizontal and vertical geometry of the highway. Additionally, the project will incorporate pedestrian facilities, such as sidewalks at least 1.50 meters wide, in areas near schools, hospitals, health centers, public institutions, churches, sports complexes, and parks. The MOP expects this intervention to strengthen connectivity between Soná, Santiago, and other communities, facilitating the movement of people and goods and boosting economic and productive activities in Veraguas.