Sixaola-MOPT
Representatives of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), started to evaluate the offer from companies interested in taking over the design and construction of the new binational Sixaola bridge.
It is intended that the work remains allocated in September, to begin its construction in February 2017.
Guiselle Alfaro, deputy minister of Infrastructure, explained that they are also studying other aspects prior the execution of the work. Those aspects must be coordinated between Costa Rica and Panama, such as procedures to obtain the environmental licenses.
In addition, it is being studied the area to develop the new structure of the binational vehicular bridge to be located in the same place where the old railroad bridge stands today.
Authorities are also working on the relocation of border control services (customs, immigration and phytosanitary control) that both countries have in the area so that such controls are not affected with the construction works
Alfaro stated that for now she cannot give further details, as established in the UNOPS guidelines.
The new binational bridge will have a lane in each direction, which will include bike paths and pedestrian walkways.
It will be built thanks to the non-refundable contribution of Mesoamerica Infrastructure Fund in the amount of 10 million dollars (50% for Costa Rica and 50% for Panama) and an additional compensation of 5 million dollars donated by Costa Rican government.
It is expected that the new border structure is in service by the end of 2017.