The Chilean Ministry of Public Works (MOP) has started the bidding process for the Caldera-Antofagasta section Route 5 Concession that will allow the expansion of 466 km with dual carriageway in each direction and strengthen the main connection route in the far north of the country.

The project also includes the construction of 4 general service areas, whose location will seek to enhance areas of territorial interest in each of the communes, such as the town of Chañaral, the connection to Taltal and Mano del Desierto, 48 at-grade returns, 21 walkways, and pedestrian circuits. In addition, advanced road safety and signage systems will be installed, along with bus stops, and it includes lighting and landscaping works in at-grade returns and at the main intersections, cycle paths, and universal accessibility in the general service areas, bus stops, and walkways. The new concession covers five sectors, from the southern access to Chañaral to the “La Negra” sector in Antofagasta. Each sector will have specific works, such as the rectification of routes and the improvement of sanitation and drainage systems.

The project involves an investment of US$ 931 million for the execution, maintenance, and operation of the work. It is estimated that the new concession, which has a maximum term of 45 years, should be awarded in the second half of the same year.