Brazilian project due

Work on the eastern section of Sao Paulo's Mario Covas orbital highway is being given the official go-ahead. Approval has been given by Sao Paulo's state environmental agency, Consema, for the 44.5km extension of the highway. The work will be carried out by concessionaire Dersa and is expected to cost US$1.54 billion. The new section of highway will connect the southern stretch in Maua to the future intersection with President Dutra highway in Aruja. A total of 102 conditions were imposed including protection of water bodies, vegetation, and relocation of habitations. The east section marks the third phase of construction of the orbital which is expected to vastly improve traffic flow. Meanwhile Brazilian highway concessionaire CART is starting repairs to highways in Sao Paulo State's Raposo Tavares Corridor by the end of April 2010. The highways affected are: Joao Baptista Cabral Renno (from Bauru to Santa Cruz do Rio Pardo), Orlando Quagliato (from Santa Cruz to Ourinhos) and Raposo Tavares (from Ourinhos to Presidente Epitacio). The total cost is expected to reach $125.34 million andincludes resurfacing 351.8km, repairs to bridges and viaducts, as well as 50% of the drainage system. The work is due for completion by December 2010. Highway SP 225 (Joao Baptista Cabral Renno) will be widened to three lanes.