The concessions division of Chile’s public works ministry (MOP) has launched two tenders, one for a US$523 million highway project and the other to conduct preparatory studies for a proposed US$1.3 billion rail link between Santiago and Valparaíso.

The initial process involves the issuance of the tender for the northern access highway in Concepción, with an estimated cost of around US$523 million. This concession encompasses the operation and enhancement of a 96.1 km roadway spanning routes 152 and 158, in addition to a new 6.9 km segment that will link to route 149. This undertaking also involves the construction of a new pedestrian bridge and the implementation of a free-flow toll system.

The second tender pertains to comprehensive studies for a 120-km railway connecting the capital city, Santiago, with Valparaíso, estimated at US$1.3 billion. The consulting firm will be tasked with defining the necessary infrastructure to link these two cities, as well as establish connections to Tiltil (in the Metropolitan region), La Calera, and Llay-Llay (in the Valparaíso region), with a focus on optimizing existing rail infrastructure. These studies also aim to outline the technical and economic prerequisites for the project's execution, along with devising a plan for train frequencies and transport capacities for both passenger and freight services.

Technical bids will be opened on April 12, 2024, and economic bids on May 24, 2024.