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Projected Investment to Improve the Ruta de la Madera Exceeds $200 Billion

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• The Ministry of Public Works (MOP) reported that, given the complex situation and difficulties the route has presented, a medium-term investment is necessary to improve its safety standards.

Recent frontal systems once again confirmed the challenging condition of the Ruta de la Madera, which connects San Pedro de la Paz, Santa Juana, and Nacimiento, as well as the necessary investment for its improvement, both in safety standards and accessibility.

Due to this, the Undersecretary of Public Works, José Andrés Herrera, visited the route alongside local authorities and announced the ministry's decision to proceed with the replacement of the 144-kilometer roadway.

"We are outlining the work that is being initiated from the public standpoint to provide a definitive solution for the Ruta de la Madera. The definitive solution is complex and long-term, requiring design and engineering investment," stated Herrera.

Additionally, he noted that estimates indicate the definitive works will cost over $200 billion: "Engineering typically accounts for 6% to 13% of the total project cost, and I believe it will be no less than $200 billion, meaning we are talking about a large-scale project."

During their visit to the area, the delegation also inspected other roads, such as Route O-882, which suffered potholes due to wildfires.

Regarding this, Regional Ministerial Secretary (Seremi) Hugo Cautivo stated that this route "has been a priority connection from the perspective of the Road Directorate's work during this government term. We have been working on consolidating this basic road through various stages of paving."