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Panama City has captured the global spotlight as a finalist for a groundbreaking infrastructure project that could redefine urban connectivity across the Panama Canal. In a major announcement by Mayor Mayer Mizrachi, the capital was selected as one of only 15 cities worldwide—from a pool of 487 global submissions—to advance in an international initiative led by Elon Musk’s The Boring Company.

The proposal envisions a first-of-its-kind pedestrian tunnel beneath the Panama Canal, creating a symbolic and direct link between the two continental sides of the waterway. While a railway tunnel is currently under construction nearby, this specific concept is designed exclusively for pedestrians, prioritizing human connection and a unique urban experience over vehicular traffic.

The project’s scope extends well beyond the underground passage. Concept plans include the creation of two expansive public parks, one on each side of the canal, joined by a landscaped pedestrian corridor. This vision aims to integrate modern mobility with public recreation, further enhancing the city’s urban identity.

A defining feature of this proposal is its financial framework. Should Panama City be selected as the final site, the developer would fully fund the project, offering a rare opportunity for world-class infrastructure to be implemented without the need for direct public investment.

Notably, Panama stands as the only city outside the United States to reach this stage of the competition. The technical challenge and symbolic weight of constructing a pedestrian path beneath one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors have clearly resonated with the selection committee.

A final decision is expected later this month. If approved, this initiative would not only introduce a revolutionary form of urban mobility but also cement Panama City’s reputation as a global leader in engineering, connectivity, and innovation.