Chile’s US$1 billion Chiloe Island bridge behind schedule

The US$1 billion project for Chile’s landmark Chacao bridge project is behind schedule. The 2.75km bridge was originally intended to be ready in 2019, with the completion date then slipping to 2020. With just 45% of the construction work complete, the bridge will now not be ready until 2026.

The construction firm Hyundai has been in discussion with the Chilean Government over the project. To date, the construction work has cost an estimated $716 million.

When complete, it will be the longest suspension bridge in Latin America. The suspension bridge design was selected as it would be able to withstand the earthquakes that occur in the region. Some of the largest earthquakes ever recorded have occurred in this area of Chile.

The connection to Chiloe Island will provide a much-needed economic boost, improving tourism and reducing journey times compared to the ferries used at present.

The client for the project is Chile’s Ministry of Public Works. Hyundai heads the consortium, Consorcio Puente Chacao, building the bridge while the design was carried out by Aas-Jakobsen and Systra.