Viaduct Project Timeline Unclear

Government remains uncertain about elevated viaduct completion timeline, creating mixed reactions locally. Concerns arise over property values and small businesses, impacting city planning and social initiatives in Tijuana.

# Government Lacks Clear Completion Date for Elevated Viaduct: SIDURT

The state government currently has no definite timeline for the completion of the elevated viaduct project, according to Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, the head of the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Urban Development, and Territorial Reorganization (SIDURT). During the latest meeting with General Manzano on the progress in San Antonio de los Buenos, no specific requirements were raised for state or municipal government involvement.

The elevated viaduct’s construction is under the supervision of the National Defense Secretariat (Sedena). Espinoza Jaramillo indicated that some segments of the project might be operational before April 2025, aiming to have part of the second level operative before the start of the Tianguis TurĂ­stico.

Initially, the project was projected to be completed before the change of the federal government. However, there have been delays, particularly with alterations at the Mirador junction. The new plan modifies the tunnel into two branches: one towards Playas de Tijuana and the other towards the airport and El Soler or the Center.

**Background Information:**
President AndrĂ©s Manuel LĂ³pez Obrador announced the viaduct’s construction on October 17, 2021, with an investment of 10 billion pesos. The elevated viaduct aims to connect the Abelardo L. RodrĂ­guez International Airport with the Playas de Tijuana delegation, traversing through the Emiliano Zapata Canyon, Libertad, and the San Ysidro border crossing.

# More on the Elevated Viaduct Project:

As per additional information gathered, the delayed completion of the elevated viaduct is drawing mixed reactions from the local community and experts. Some claim that more extensive studies were necessary before initiating the construction. Concerns include potential depreciations in property values around Colonia Libertad and the impact on small businesses struggling with rising rent costs. These issues were highlighted by Gina Villalobos, who noted the challenges retailers face amid stringent operational requirements.

The project has also influenced city planning, with the newly proposed Blvd TerĂ¡n TerĂ¡n forecasted to divide Tijuana and the new eastern municipality. Meanwhile, the ongoing construction of vertical developments continues to drive investment and economic activity in Tijuana, as confirmed by Comice TTR.

Furthermore, the project has social implications, with recent efforts to rehabilitate 500 homeless individuals aiming to reclaim touristic spaces and boost local commerce. On the cultural side, events like the Baja Beach Fest have led to increased hotel occupancy and restaurant traffic, showcasing the city’s potential growth post-project completion.

In the education sector, a recent update by the Secretary of Education reported that 61% of free textbooks have been distributed in Baja California, with efforts continuing to ensure all schools receive their materials.

Overall, while the elevated viaduct project remains uncertain in terms of its completion date, it continues to influence various aspects of Tijuana’s urban and social landscape, with potential long-term benefits and challenges ahead.