Chile secures $1.27 Billion Investment for Major Upgrade of Route 5 North
Chile’s Ministry of Public Works (MOP) recently announced the best economic bid for the highly anticipated Second Concession of the Route 5 North section, covering Santiago to Los Vilos.
Vías Chile, a prominent infrastructure firm, tabled an impressive offer of UF 47.7 million (approximately US$51.1 million), winning the tender for this substantial project, which represents a total investment of US$1.275 billion. This project is crucial to enhancing the efficiency and safety of one of Chile’s most significant transport corridors.
Strategic Upgrades to Route 5 will Enhancing Connectivity
Route 5, part of the Pan-American Highway, is a lifeline for Chile’s economy, facilitating trade and mobility across the country. The section in question begins at the northern outskirts of Santiago, in the Quilicura commune, and extends 229.1 kilometres northward to Los Vilos. The proposed upgrades under the concession include significant road expansions and safety enhancements designed to meet the growing traffic demands.
One of the key features is the expansion of key segments of the highway. The stretch between the Buenaventura interchange and Batuco-Liray interchange will be expanded from three to four lanes in each direction, totalling 10.7 km. Additionally, the section from Batuco-Liray to the southern interchange of the El Melón Tunnel will be widened from two to three lanes in each direction, covering approximately 102 km. The enhancements also include vital tunnel upgrades such as improvements to the La Calavera Tunnel and increased safety measures in the El Melón Tunnel.
Infrastructure Development with A Community-Focused Approach
Beyond enhancing capacity, the project is committed to improving road safety and accessibility. Plans include adjusting 85 km of the route to accommodate higher speed limits, set to range between 100 and 120 km/h, which will help ease congestion and improve travel times. Importantly, this concession also focuses on community integration by upgrading existing service roads, currently with granular surfaces, to asphalt and adding 85 km of new service roads. These developments will better connect the communities along the route, fostering local economic growth.
The project aims to enhance local connectivity further by constructing 15 new interchanges and upgrading existing ones, with particular attention given to improving the La Montaña interchange at Santiago’s northern exit. These improvements are expected to reduce traffic bottlenecks and provide smoother access for both local and long-distance travellers.
Building for the Future: Pedestrian, Public Transport, and Local Commerce
An essential aspect of the concession is the commitment to inclusivity and supporting local economies. The project will feature the construction of 19 new bridges and 31 new pedestrian walkways, alongside the replacement of 38 existing walkways, all designed to meet universal accessibility standards. This focus on pedestrian infrastructure aligns with Chile’s broader goals of promoting safe, inclusive transport solutions.
Public transport users and local entrepreneurs will also benefit from these upgrades. The plan includes establishing bus stops and pedestrian circuits along the route, providing better access and mobility options for residents. Two interprovincial bus stops, modelled on the successful Colón sector stop south of Santiago, will be constructed at Santiago’s northern exit. Additionally, the project will introduce 10 sales areas where local vendors can sell regional products, boosting local commerce and promoting tourism in the surrounding areas.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Environmental sustainability and road safety are central to the project. Alongside road expansions and infrastructure upgrades, the project will incorporate environmentally friendly measures to mitigate the impact on surrounding ecosystems. Although specific details have yet to be released, modern highway projects in Chile typically include noise reduction barriers, improved drainage systems, and wildlife crossings.
From a safety perspective, the project not only expands road capacity but also targets key risk areas along the route. Upgraded service roads and pedestrian infrastructure will reduce the risk of accidents, while adjustments to speed limits will encourage smoother, safer traffic flow. These measures are part of a broader initiative to enhance road safety across Chile’s transport network.
Timeline and Future Expectations
Construction is slated to begin in the final quarter of 2028, with a projected completion date by the end of 2031. Given the scope of this project, the phased approach will ensure minimal disruption to existing traffic while accelerating the delivery of critical segments. The substantial investment and the involvement of a reputable firm like Vías Chile signal confidence in the long-term benefits this infrastructure will bring.
Once complete, these upgrades are expected to transform Route 5 North into a more efficient, safer corridor that better serves the transportation needs of Chile’s growing population and economy. The improved connectivity will undoubtedly stimulate further economic activity in the regions along the route, fostering regional development and creating new opportunities for businesses and communities alike.
A New Era for Chile’s Infrastructure Development
This concession represents a significant leap forward in Chile’s ongoing efforts to modernise its transport infrastructure. With a balanced focus on economic growth, environmental stewardship, and community welfare, this project is set to be a cornerstone of the country’s development strategy over the coming decade.
As Route 5 North undergoes these vital enhancements, it will not only improve travel efficiency but also set new benchmarks for inclusive and sustainable infrastructure projects across Latin America.
