News

A key government agency has approved two highway infrastructure projects that will provide long term benefits for Punta Pacifica residents.

The National Environment Authority (ANAM) decided to move forward with the expansion of the highway linking the city to the Tocumen International Airport from two lanes to three in both directions, which should dramatically improve the commute to the airport.

The agency also approved the creation of an elevated viaduct which will connect Corridor Sur to the new Cinta Costera, allowing traffic to bypass downtown Punta Pacifica. Once completed, travelers will no longer have to drive on to downtown roads to connect to the coastal beltway. The two projects are expected to cost more than $300 million.

Both projects should help ease traffic congestion in the city, especially during rush hour, and keep commuter traffic away from Punta Pacifica’s streets. At the same time, the new highways will make it easier for Punta Pacifica residents to reach destinations around the city.

Coupled with the recent completion of the first phase of Panama City metro and the completion of Cinta Costera, the government is sending a signal that it is committed to spend money to change traffic patterns in Panama City and bring the transportation system up to international standards.

About 60,000 cars use the Corridor Sur highway daily, and that is expected to almost double by 2025, La Prensa reports.

“Today’s expansion of the South corridor in its entirety is necessary due to vehicular growth that has occurred in recent years and the large number of people who use it daily to bridge time and distance,” the resolution concluded.

The move follows the inauguration of new President Juan Carlos Varela, who started his term on July 1. He began his term by announcing more than $500 million in new water and infrastructure projects.