Construction of the highway that will provide a shortcut between Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta is advancing, with development of the final section of the third phase of the “Vía Corta” becoming evident in Bahía de Banderas. The ongoing efforts aim to complete this stretch of the road, which spans 32 kilometers, connecting the new intersection at La Cruz de Huanacaxtle with Puerto Vallarta, ultimately leading to the Airport.
Signs of progress are now noticeable as works extend beyond La Misión, passing the Rancho Los Pinos. This phase involves preparing the land and discussing the placement of layers of asphalt and concrete structures.
Completion of this section is expected by March, aligning with recent statements from President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO), who has committed to finishing the entire project by that 2024 deadline.
This section of the road is unique in that it won’t have any intersections from its connection with Route 200 in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to Puerto Vallarta. Instead, connectivity will be established through the construction of two new bridges – one over the Mascota River and another over the Ameca River. These additions will provide access to the Airport, utilizing existing infrastructure, although subsequent road adaptations will be necessary to accommodate the anticipated surge in vehicular traffic.
Recent satellite images from early August show the progress of the project led by the company Mota-Engil. The work has extended to the area between La Misión and Valle de Banderas, clearing the path for the ongoing installation of the roadway.
Upon the completion of the third phase, the route will alleviate traffic flow into Puerto Vallarta from either the highway or Route 200, likely as a toll road despite its relatively short length. This distinction arises due to its designation as a part of the highway rather than a mere alternate route for inter-municipal commuters, a role reserved for the Federación Bridge project.
Ultimately, this infrastructure initiative aims to reduce travel time between Guadalajara and the Banderas Bay area to a mere two and a half hours.
With reports from Vallarta en Línea