**Use of Otay 2 Crossing for Empty Trucks Awaits Approval from Mexican Customs Authority, States Canacar**
The infrastructure of the new Otay 2 border crossing is slated for special use while the U.S. completes its side of the project, as announced by the President on Monday. According to Israel Delgado Vallejo, Vice President of the Northwest region of Canacar, approval from the National Customs Agency of Mexico (ANAM) is pending for empty cargo trucks to line up at Otay 2 before entering the current export zone. The proposal, spearheaded by the state government through the federal Secretariat of Economy, aims to utilize this 6.7-kilometer infrastructure, which would remain unused until 2028 due to delays on the U.S. side for the operation of Otay 2.
“It would be a great area to facilitate the movement of 1,000 to 1,500 empty trucks that now circulate along Boulevard Bellas Artes, causing traffic chaos in the area,” stated Delgado Vallejo. Previously, these empty trucks used the zone to access the export region, but the construction of Otay 2 has required them to share the same access as full trucks.
The Mexican President, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, stated that until the U.S. completes its part, the existing Otay 1 crossing will be enhanced by utilizing the new crossing’s infrastructure. The Secretary of Economic Development of Tijuana, Pedro Montejo Peterson, confirmed that the project was presented during a recent presidential visit to Baja California and awaits a few agreements to be finalized in the next week to put this plan into action.
**Additional Context: Progress and Challenges with Otay 2**
As of recent updates, the Otay 2 crossing is 90% complete, according to the Urban and Territorial Infrastructure Department (Sidurt). This border crossing aims to significantly alleviate traffic congestion by providing an alternative for empty trucks, which are currently an added burden on the existing infrastructure.
However, significant challenges remain. Resources are needed to finance the necessary staff for Otay 2’s operation, and currently, it isn’t feasible to open the crossing in a single direction due to logistical and operational constraints. The local government continues to work on resolving these issues, emphasizing the importance of efficient border operations for the regional economy.
In related local news, Tijuana witnesses various worker movements and economic updates. Government workers have reached agreements with state authorities, while issues such as proposed reforms impacting state workers are sparking protests. Additionally, there are seasonal developments like the sale of Christmas items in the city center, and local athletic events inviting participation from Tijuana athletes.
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