Paraguay’s Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) has announced that significant improvement and rehabilitation works began on Avelino Martínez Avenue in San Lorenzo, near Asunción. The project, which also includes its continuation along Luis María Argaña Avenue aims to address long-standing infrastructure issues and enhance one of the Central Department’s most crucial transport corridors.
Initial phase targets drainage and road surface
The first stage of the project concentrates on the Tres Bocas area, a critical junction experiencing frequent traffic congestion and flooding. According to Sebastián Olivella of executor GS Road Consortium, the initial works will involve the installation of new storm drains. This is a crucial step designed to mitigate the effects of heavy rainfall. Additionally, a new rigid pavement structure made of concrete will be laid to replace the existing road surface. This initial phase of Lot 1 is expected to cover a total of 600 metres.
Olivella stated in a conversation with state media that this first phase has a projected duration of four months. The primary objectives are to significantly reduce the accumulation of raudales (localised flash floods) and provide a temporary improvement to the flow of traffic in this heavily used area.
Detours enabled for traffic on crucial transport corridors
In order to facilitate the construction, significant changes to local traffic patterns are necessary. For those traveling from Ñemby towards Asunción and then on to San Lorenzo, two alternative routes are available: the detour via 1° de Mayo Street, before reaching Tres Bocas, or the entrance via Boquerón Street, after passing the roundabout. In the opposite direction, from Asunción towards Ñemby, a U-turn is planned at Tres Bocas, with access via Boquerón Street.
For traffic coming from San Lorenzo along Avelino Martínez Avenue, vehicles heading towards Villa Elisa or Asunción must detour via Pérez Uribe Street. Those destined for Ñemby must enter via San Salvador Street, connecting to 1° de Mayo and Pratt Gill Streets. The entire route will be properly signposted and coordinated with traffic officers.
A comprehensive two-year project
The initial 600-metre section is merely the beginning of a much larger, comprehensive rehabilitation project. The full plan extends for nearly six kilometres, starting from the PY01 route in the Tres Bocas area and continuing all the way to its connection with the PY02 route. This ambitious project has a total timeline of 24 months.
To ensure efficiency and manage the extensive scope of work, the project has been divided into two distinct fronts, both of which will operate under the close supervision of the MOPC.
Extensive structural and environmental upgrades
The works involve far more than a simple resurfacing of the road. A complete structural rehabilitation is planned, which includes laying a new pavement of hydraulic concrete over a prepared granular base for enhanced durability. Furthermore, the project incorporates the construction of modern drainage systems and new kerb drains to effectively manage water runoff.
In addition to these core engineering tasks, the project includes significant adjustments to the surrounding urban environment to better integrate the renewed avenue into the local landscape. These upgrades are designed to create a more functional and aesthetically pleasing public space for residents and commuters.
Improving connecting routes and water management
A key component of the project is the implementation of advanced systems for capturing stormwater throughout the area. This is a critical measure to prevent the flooding issues that have historically plagued the avenue. Moreover, the work will extend to the intersecting transverse streets.
The project brief specifies that the existing pavement on these side streets will be completely removed. Subsequently, these streets will be entirely reconstructed to a higher standard.
The work on the crucial transport corridors will be carried out in stages, allowing for gradual progress and minimising traffic disruptions. Drivers are asked to proceed with caution and obey all traffic signs. Highway Patrol officers are assisting with the work to manage traffic flow.
Also read: ‘Pothole Exterminator’ New Tool To Expedite Paraguay’s Road Repairs.
