**Builders Remain Uninformed on Elevated Viaduct Project**
Despite ongoing construction, local builders in Tijuana are still in the dark regarding updates on the Elevated Viaduct project. Gabriel Vizcaíno, President of the Mexican Chamber of the Construction Industry in Tijuana (CMIC), emphasized the need for transparency in resource usage for this federal project, which is being carried out by the National Defense Secretariat. Originally expected to be completed by September, the construction’s progress remains unclear to local industry experts.
“We need to be actively involved to ensure timely and proper completion,” said Vizcaíno. “We have not received any program or project updates, nor do we know of any changes.”
Vizcaíno urged for the involvement of the local construction industry to tailor the project more effectively to the border’s unique needs. He invited those responsible for the project to engage with local chambers to clarify timelines and functionalities, mentioning the difficulty in addressing issues without clear information. Rising costs, particularly concerning concrete, were also noted as a factor needing discussion.
From his specialist perspective, Vizcaíno believes that the viaduct appears to be well-constructed, hoping it will benefit cross-border dynamics. However, he reiterated the importance of detailed explanations for local stakeholders, as attempts to connect with project developers have not yet succeeded.
**Secondary Article: Construction Challenges and Community Concerns**
While the Elevated Viaduct project faces scrutiny, other infrastructure topics have surfaced in Tijuana. Questions linger over the anticipated completion date of the viaduct, a matter acknowledged by the State Infrastructure and Urban Development Office. Initial plans suggest a partial opening by April’s end, but uncertainty prevails about the final unveiling.
Elsewhere, social issues intersect with city planning, as residents express discontent over government reforms and services. An ongoing protest involves elderly citizens seeking pension support despite lacking documentation, highlighting a gap in the social safety net. Additionally, Tijuana’s financial approach is under review, with planned property embargoes to recover overdue taxes from industrial and commercial entities.
Notably, public health and safety have taken center stage, reflecting broader social dynamics. Recent crime investigations, particularly into the murder of a minister and his brother, emphasize the need for robust law enforcement responses. As part of efforts to maintain civil service integrity, drug tests for municipal employees have yielded several positive results, underscoring the city’s focus on accountability.