Mexico’s Secretary of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT), Jesús Antonio Esteva Medina, officially launched construction of the Amado Nervo Bridge this week, marking the beginning of a major connectivity project for the Puerto Vallarta–Bahía de Banderas metropolitan region. The ceremony highlighted the federal government’s commitment to improving regional infrastructure while addressing social equity concerns.
Speaking on behalf of President Claudia Sheinbaum, Secretary Esteva emphasized the project’s social impact mission. The bridge will operate without tolls, designed specifically to enhance mobility access across economic levels and reduce transportation inequalities in the region.
“The social component is important. It’s not a toll road; it’s designed to connect these communities and provide greater mobility, making the right to efficient and safe mobility a reality,” Esteva explained during his remarks. “As mentioned, we’re just starting here and will be finished by November 2026.”
The new bridge infrastructure promises to transform regional accessibility by improving connections to key destinations including the University Center of the Coast and Puerto Vallarta International Airport. Officials view the project as crucial for strengthening tourism infrastructure and expanding economic opportunities throughout the coastal region.
Highway Repair Commitments Secured
Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus used the high-profile ceremony to advocate for federal attention to deteriorating conditions on two critical regional highways. His public appeal focused on Highway 200, which runs directly through Puerto Vallarta, and Highway 80, the vital corridor linking Guadalajara to the state’s southern coastal areas.
The governor’s strategic timing proved effective. When questioned later by CPS Noticias–Tribuna de la Bahía, Secretary Esteva confirmed that repair work on both highways is already in progress under federal oversight.
“They’re already on Highway 80 and Highway 200. Yes, road maintenance is part of the Bachetón program, and they’re already working on all those projects,” Esteva stated. “Furthermore, the president announced today that the next phase of the Bachetón program is coming.”
The Bachetón program represents the federal government’s comprehensive approach to addressing road maintenance backlogs across Mexico’s highway system.
