**Otay 2 Border Crossing Nears Completion: Progress and Future Plans**
As of late October 2024, the Otay 2 border crossing project in Tijuana is 90% complete, according to Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, the head of the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Urban Development, and Territorial Reorganization (Sidurt) in Baja California. The project is managed by the Mexican military. Espinoza Jaramillo expressed optimism that the construction would be finished by December 31, with an anticipated opening in January, although he mentioned that coordination with American counterparts remains pending.
Authorities are currently evaluating the possibility of using a part of the ongoing construction at Otay 2 to alleviate traffic congestion on the Bellas Artes Boulevard. The idea is to allow freight trucks to bypass this area and access the export lane more efficiently.
Despite the nearing completion on the Mexican side, the project faces financial challenges concerning staffing at Otay 2. Sidurt plans to initiate a construction tender for the U.S. side of the border this year. However, completing the project on the American side is expected to take an additional two to three years.
**Additional Updates on Border and Local Developments**
1. **No Immediate Opening for Otay 2 in One Direction:** There are currently no plans to open Otay 2 exclusively in one direction, as logistics and international coordination remain under development.
2. **Expected Completion of Otay 2 in Five Weeks; U.S. Project by 2027:** Mexican authorities are optimistic about finishing the Otay 2 project in about five weeks. However, the corresponding infrastructure on the U.S. side might not be ready until 2027.
3. **Economic Trends in Tijuana:** Reports indicate an increase in store robberies by 30% this year. Additionally, small businesses hope for a 25% rise in sales during the holiday season despite challenges, including closures due to municipal inspector scams.
4. **Public Safety Concerns:** A recent violent incident in Mariano Matamoros involved the killing of two individuals in a vehicle, with .40-caliber bullet casings found at the crime scene.
5. **Weather Forecast for Tijuana:** Light rains are expected this Monday, with temperatures peaking at 19°C. Residents are advised to stay informed about potential winter storms as predicted by Tijuana’s Civil Protection Agency.
These topics reflect ongoing issues and developments in Tijuana and its border areas, illustrating both progress and the hurdles still to be overcome.