The bustling city of Santiago, Chile, is about to witness a transformative infrastructure project that promises to revolutionize connectivity in the northern region of the Metropolitan area. VíasChile, a Spanish company under the Abertis Group, marked a significant milestone by laying the foundation stone for the Lo Ruiz Tunnel. This ambitious venture aims to alleviate the perennial issue of traffic congestion plaguing the Quilicura junction, a critical intersection where the Central Highway (Ruta 5 Sur), General Velásquez Avenue, Vespucio Norte Expressway, and Los Libertadores Highway converge.
With an investment of UF10 million, equivalent to approximately $392 billion at today’s UF value, the Lo Ruiz Tunnel project is set to span an impressive 5.8 kilometers. The construction will feature two tunnels, each 1.5 kilometers long, housing two lanes in each direction. These tunnels will seamlessly link the General Velásquez axis (from the Central Highway) and the Américo Vespucio Norte Highway.
“The congestion in northern Santiago, particularly at the Quilicura junction, can only be definitively alleviated through new infrastructure. The proposed solution involves a large-scale redesign, creating new connections in the urban highway network, including a dual tunnel,”
remarked Gloria Hutt, President of the Association of Public Infrastructure Concessionaires (Copsa). Additionally, through an additional agreement within Vías Chile’s concession contract, the project will introduce urban value infrastructure such as parks, sports fields, and recreation areas. This holistic approach not only enhances connectivity but also enriches nearby communities with high-quality public spaces.
Once operational, the Lo Ruiz Tunnel is projected to reduce traffic flow at the Quilicura junction by 25%, significantly enhancing connectivity between the Quilicura and Renca municipalities. The tunnel will boast a maximum speed limit of 80 km/hour, ensuring efficient travel for commuters. It is anticipated that upon completion, the project will slash travel times by at least 20%. VíasChile anticipates that travel times at the Américo Vespucio Norte and Ruta 5 Sur junction could decrease by up to 20 minutes.
According to the General Directorate of Concessions, the construction timeline for the Lo Ruiz Tunnel spans 50 months, indicating a potential completion date in 2027. This timeline underscores the intricate planning and execution required for a project of this magnitude. As the tunnel takes shape over the coming years, residents and commuters in Santiago can look forward to a smoother, more efficient transportation network that will redefine the region’s infrastructure landscape.
In conclusion, the Lo Ruiz Tunnel represents more than just a construction project; it symbolizes progress, innovation, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the residents of Santiago. As the city evolves and grows, strategic infrastructure developments like the Lo Ruiz Tunnel play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable, interconnected future for generations to come.
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