The Ministry of Public Works (MOP) has officially launched the expansion project for the Corredor de las Playas, specifically on the stretch between El Espino de La Chorrera and Sajalices de Capira, including the construction of the Variante Campana. The total investment for the project exceeds 228 million balboas. The project also involves the use of modified asphalt, relocation of public services, construction of interchanges, and rehabilitation of pedestrian bridges to comprehensively modernize this artery of the Pan-American Highway. Initial works include shoulder cleaning, sediment removal, and installation of safety signage to protect users and technical staff. Lilian Gutiérrez, the project director, stated that the execution of this work represents a milestone for national mobility. It is estimated that the construction will generate 600 direct and around 1,000 indirect jobs, boosting the local economy, while the benefits will reach about 2 million people, including residents, transporters, and tourists. The project covers approximately 19 kilometers of roadway that will be expanded from four to six lanes. This road infrastructure aims to strengthen connectivity in the province of West Panama and streamline traffic towards the interior of the country. During the planned 30-month construction period, one lane per direction of travel will remain open, and temporary detours will be implemented. The technical design is divided into three main segments. The first segment connects La Chorrera (Los Calderones) with Capira over 10.10 kilometers, with three lanes per direction. The second segment spans 2 kilometers in the commercial area of Capira, incorporating marginal roads and a design speed of 60 km/h. The third segment extends to the entrance of Campana, designed for speeds of 80 km/h with three lanes per direction. As a key component, the Variante Campana is being constructed—a 3.80-kilometer viaduct with three lanes per direction and a central safety barrier. This structure uses pre-stressed beam and double cantilever techniques to adapt to the complex topography of the area. Work on the Corredor de las Playas will be carried out Monday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with the possibility of night shifts with prior notice.
