Chile’s Ministry of Public Works has announced a $1.27 billion (£1 billion) investment to overhaul Route 5 North, a critical section of the Pan-American Highway connecting Santiago to Los Vilos.
Awarded to leading infrastructure firm Vías Chile, the project is set to transform one of the nation’s most vital transportation corridors through road expansions, modernised infrastructure, and improved connectivity for local communities.
Route 5 North stretches 229 kilometres from Santiago’s northern outskirts in Quilicura to Los Vilos and serves as a lifeline for Chile’s economy, facilitating trade and daily travel.
As traffic volumes continue to grow, the project aims to enhance road capacity and safety while fostering regional development.
Among the planned upgrades is the expansion of key sections of the highway.
Batuco-Liray will be widened to four lanes in each direction, covering 10.7 kilometres, while the route from Batuco-Liray to the southern exit of the El Melón Tunnel will increase to three lanes in each direction, spanning approximately 102 kilometres.
These improvements are expected to reduce congestion and allow for smoother, more efficient travel.
The project will also focus on upgrading existing tunnels, with significant improvements planned for the La Calavera Tunnel and safety enhancements for the El Melón Tunnel.
These measures will ensure the highway is equipped to handle increased traffic while meeting modern safety standards.
In addition to addressing highway capacity, the development takes a community-centred approach by integrating local accessibility improvements. Approximately 85 kilometres of existing service roads will be upgraded to asphalt surfaces, and 85 kilometres of new service roads will be constructed.
These improvements will provide better access for nearby communities and encourage local economic activity.
The construction of 15 new interchanges and the modernisation of existing ones, including enhancements to the La Montaña interchange at Santiago’s northern exit, will further reduce traffic bottlenecks and facilitate smoother connections between regional and national routes.
A key element of the project is its focus on pedestrian and public transport infrastructure. The plan includes the construction of 19 new bridges and 31 pedestrian walkways, while 38 existing walkways will be replaced to meet universal accessibility standards.
This commitment ensures safer travel for pedestrians and aligns with broader goals to promote inclusive transportation. For public transport users, new interprovincial bus stops will be established, designed to improve access and mobility for commuters.
Additionally, dedicated sales zones will allow local vendors to showcase and sell regional products, creating new opportunities for businesses and supporting tourism growth in surrounding areas.
Environmental and safety considerations are integral to the project’s design. While specific sustainability measures have yet to be detailed, similar infrastructure initiatives in Chile have included noise barriers, improved drainage systems, and wildlife crossings to mitigate environmental impact.
On the safety front, the road expansions, pedestrian upgrades, and adjusted speed limits will reduce accident risks and improve traffic flow, contributing to safer journeys for drivers and pedestrians alike.
Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2028 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2031.
