| Work Detail |
The transformation of Route 40 South , the section connecting San Juan with Mendoza, is entering its most intense phase eight months after work resumed. The Temporary Union of Companies (UTE) Construcciones Ivica y Antonio Dumandzic SA – Semisa Infraestructura SA is close to reaching its peak hiring with between 250 and 300 workers and is preparing to begin one of the most complex stages: the construction of three elevated bridges that will radically modify traffic at key points along the route. The work corresponds to Section 2 , which covers 26 kilometers between Tres Esquinas and the entrance to Cochagual , and is mostly financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) , with a complementary contribution of 7% from Vialidad Nacional . After more than four years of paralysis by the previous contractor, the resumed work includes roadway widening, paving of collector roads and new road structures , aimed at improving traffic safety and efficiency, especially freight. The UTE confirmed that a significant amount of earthworks , site preparation, and detours have already been completed. The construction of bridges over the Cochagual, Colonia Fiscal, and Media Agua crossings is scheduled to begin in June, once the administrative procedures for executive permits are completed. These structures will allow for the segregation of vehicular traffic and provide greater protection to the surrounding communities. At the same time, paving will begin on the side collector roads , which will allow traffic to continue while work is carried out on the main body of the highway. This phase could begin in late June or early July. The use of collector roads during the construction process will ensure operational safety for users , especially on a road with heavy truck traffic. The project has created a dedicated workshop on San Luis Street and an aggregate plant , which supplies the project directly with materials processed at source. This strategy allows for greater logistical efficiency and cost reduction , taking advantage of the resources available in San Juan, and is only viable when companies have the technical capacity and infrastructure. One of the highlights is the social impact of the project: nearly 50% of the hired staff comes from nearby towns, and around 10% is women , which helps boost the regional economy and generate real jobs in a context of high labor demand. With approximately 20 months of construction ahead , Route 40 South is progressing on schedule and with an intensive work model that prioritizes safety, local development, and the improvement of a key route for commercial traffic between San Juan, Mendoza, and the logistical heart of Vaca Muerta . |
