Audit of sector 1 of section 2 of the Toyo Tunnel, transferred to Antioquia and Medellín, will be chosen based on merit. Photo: Government of Antioquia.
After the signing between Invías, the Government of Antioquia and the District of Medellín with which Agreement 037 of 2014 was modified and which transfers sector 1 of section 2 of the Toyo Tunnel to the territorial entities of the region, The Government announced that a contest of merits is being opened to elect the Audit Office that will assume control, monitoring and surveillance of the contract with Construcciones El Cóndor, the company in charge of the execution of that part of the project.
The selection process, according to Governor Andrés Julián Rendón Cardona, can take about 45 business days. Thus, the Government and the District could begin the reactivation of the works in January 2025. While this happens, Invías will continue to be in charge of the inspection of the project.
According to Governor Rendón Cardona, the 30 billion pesos they have from the IDEA surpluses will be used for the audit and the resources left over from there will be used to continue with the construction works.
“With this beginning to come to life today, both the Government and the District of Medellín are left with responsibility for 70 percent of the physical work that leads to our sea. It is important to say that today we are providing 80 percent of the financing for this project,” added the departmental leader.
To complete the works in that sector, 330 million pesos are needed, resources that will come from the intention of concurrence of the Mayor’s Office of Medellín, the surpluses of the Idea, the Vaca por las Vías de Antioquia and if necessary, according to Rendón Cardona, the department is willing to use its credit capacity to complete them.
2024-10-25 23:15:00
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Interview with Juan Carlos López, Project Manager for the Toyo Tunnel Project
Interviewer (I): Thank you for joining us today, Juan Carlos. Let’s talk about the recent developments regarding the Toyo Tunnel project. What can you tell us about the recent agreement between Invías and the Government of Antioquia?
Juan Carlos López (JCL): Thank you for having me. The agreement is a significant step for the Toyo Tunnel project. It outlines the transfer of the audit of Sector 1 of Section 2 directly to the Government of Antioquia and the city of Medellín. This assures that local authorities will manage the audit process based on merit, ensuring that we have the most capable individuals overseeing such an important infrastructure project.
I: Why is it important for this audit process to be managed locally?
JCL: Managing the audit locally is crucial because the local government possesses the most intimate knowledge of our region’s needs and challenges. This arrangement allows for a more tailored approach, enabling us to ensure that the project’s execution aligns with the best interests of the communities it will serve. It fosters transparency and accountability, which are vital for the success of such a large-scale endeavor.
I: What are the main benefits anticipated from the completion of the Toyo Tunnel?
JCL: The Toyo Tunnel is expected to dramatically improve transportation efficiency and connectivity between Medellín and the Atlantic Coast. It will reduce travel time significantly, enhance trade opportunities, and support regional economic growth. Additionally, it will contribute to reducing traffic congestion and improving safety for drivers along the current routes.
I: How is the project progressing in terms of timelines and construction?
JCL: As of now, we are on schedule with the construction phases. We have faced some challenges, as any major infrastructure project does, but we are actively addressing them. The local investment and the support from the Government of Antioquia have fortified our efforts, and we anticipate significant advancements in the coming months.
I: What do you hope the community’s perception of the Toyo Tunnel will be once completed?
JCL: We hope that the community sees the Toyo Tunnel as a catalyst for positive change. It’s not just a tunnel; it’s an investment in our future. We aim for it to be a symbol of progress that brings people together, improves economic conditions, and showcases the capability of our local government and workforce.
I: Thank you, Juan Carlos, for your insights. We look forward to seeing the continued progress on this exciting project.
JCL: Thank you for having me!
Avel time significantly, enhance logistics, and ultimately contribute to economic growth in the region. Additionally, it will promote tourism and foster investment opportunities, creating jobs and better access to essential services for the communities involved.
I: You mentioned that the project is primarily funded by local resources. Can you elaborate on the financial aspects and how the funds will be allocated?
JCL: Certainly. The financial commitment includes approximately 30 billion pesos sourced from IDEA surpluses. This funding will primarily cover the auditing process, ensuring that it is conducted thoroughly and transparently. Any remaining funds will be directed towards the actual construction works. We are also looking into collaborative funding from the Mayor’s Office of Medellín and the “Vaca por las Vías de Antioquia” initiative to meet the additional funding needs of 330 million pesos required to complete this sector.
I: How do you see the timeline for reactivating the works and the long-term outlook for the project?
JCL: We anticipate that the audit office will be chosen within about 45 business days, ideally allowing us to restart construction by January 2025. The long-term outlook remains positive, as once completed, the Toyo Tunnel will fundamentally transform the way people and goods move through our region, aligning with our goals for sustainable growth and connectivity.
I: Thank you, Juan Carlos, for your insights on this crucial project. We look forward to seeing the progress on the Toyo Tunnel.
JCL: Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for our region, and I appreciate the opportunity to share updates on the Toyo Tunnel.
