Riviera Nayarit, Mexico – The Compostela-Las Varas stretch of the Jala-Puerto Vallarta highway officially opened for traffic on Wednesday, March 27, at 2:00 p.m., as announced by the Nayarit Center of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT).
This section, spanning 31 kilometers, encountered delays during construction due to issues with acquiring rights of way and environmental permits. Originally slated for completion in early 2024, the SICT later aimed for a pre-Holy Week and Easter holiday launch.
Situated amidst the Sierra de Vallejo, the new segment facilitates a 20-minute connection between Compostela and El Capomo, facilitated by the impressive Las Truchas bridge. Additionally, it integrates with the El Tonino to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle segment, promising to trim approximately 45 minutes off the journey from Compostela to Bahía de Banderas, enhancing driver comfort and safety.
Notably, this segment of the new highway is toll-free for the time being. The outlined route spans from Guadalajara through Jala, Compostela, El Capomo, Tonino, Monteón, Bucerías, and concludes at Puerto Vallarta.
Further expansion is underway, with a 32.2-kilometer section currently in construction, linking the San Vicente junction directly to the Puerto Vallarta international airport. Upon completion, this extension is projected to reduce travel time by another 25 minutes.
These infrastructure enhancements aim to facilitate swift and secure access to one of Mexico’s premier tourist destinations.