### Delay in Cañón Zapata Could Postpone the Elevated Viaduct Delivery
**By: Ernesto Eslava**
The construction delay in the Emiliano Zapata Canyon, located near the border wall in the Libertad neighborhood, endangers the inauguration of the elevated viaduct project. This viaduct is set to connect the Airport Highway with the International Avenue. The completion target is the first quarter of 2025, aimed to be ready for the National Tourist Fair, scheduled at the Metropolitan Convention Center in Rosarito from April 28 to May 1 of next year.
The Zapata Canyon has encountered significant complications, mainly because federal authorities faced issues with right-of-way permissions and legal disputes over 170 properties between the Libertad neighborhood and the canyon. Currently, this zone has only achieved 40% progress, with some foundational work completed.
**Progress on International Section**
Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, the Secretary of Infrastructure for Baja California, provided some insights: “Deep foundation work has also been done parallel to the international line. Investments for the bridge constructions crossing from the United States to Mexico are ongoing. We’re currently working on the foundation for the ‘false tunnel,’ which will act as a swing leading to the train tracks.”
The project is segmented into three parts: Zapata Canyon, International, and Soler-Matadero. The second floor of the International section is expected to handle 300,000 vehicles and stands at 51% completion. It should be finished by December 2024, with just the assembly of prefabricated pieces remaining.
“The International section is above 65% completion as most surface pieces have been prefabricated. The tunnel excavation starting from the Soler side is about 65% complete, aiming to achieve a kilometer in excavation, with 200 meters remaining. The two working fronts should connect by December this year,” explained the Secretary of SIDURT.
**Cañón Zapata Inspection**
On August 22, Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila inspected the federal project alongside Brigadier General Raúl Manzano Vélez from the National Defense Secretariat. “The construction is now aligned along the International section and the primary tunnel at Soler, which is the most challenging area. By December, we expect it to be complete from Soler to Matadero Canyon,” Espinoza stated. “The primary concern now is the viaduct entry and exit points, which must be operational to launch the project,” he added.
The goal is to inaugurate the entire project by April 2025, even if it means opening partially or completing at least two sections, concluded the official.
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### Additional Developments on Local Infrastructure Projects
**Delay in Expo Area Development**
Another significant infrastructure project facing delays is the development of the Expo Area. Construction has been slowed due to disputes over local zoning laws and environmental impact reports. The project aims to host world-class events but has struggled to meet deadlines, raising concerns about future event schedules in the area.
**New Public Transport Routes Announced**
In response to the growing need for better public transport, the local government has announced new bus routes connecting key areas of the city. This initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion and provide a reliable alternative for daily commuters.
**Improvements in Local Healthcare Facilities**
The state’s healthcare system is also seeing improvements with the introduction of new medical equipment and the expansion of existing facilities. These changes are expected to reduce waiting times and improve the quality of care for residents.
For more updates on these and other infrastructure projects in Baja California, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.