After being closed to traffic for a week, the México Bridge, commonly known as El Chaparral Bridge, reopened this Tuesday, restoring a key route for commuters in one of Tijuana’s busiest areas.
Mayor Abdiel Gutiérrez stated that the closure, which began last week, allowed crews to carry out round-the-clock repairs on the structure’s expansion joints.
“Recognizing how vital this bridge is for both residents and the city’s mobility, we undertook maintenance around the clock for seven straight days. As of today, we are pleased to announce it is once again open to traffic,” he said.
He added that the intervention was prompted by reports from local residents and noted that the accelerated timeline helped minimize disruption for drivers.
Repairs Totaled Roughly 1.2 Million Pesos
Virginia Alejandra Vargas González, Secretary of Territorial and Urban Development (STDUA), explained that prior to the repairs, the bridge underwent a comprehensive safety inspection in coordination with Civil Protection and the Municipal Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.
The expansion joint replacement required an investment of approximately 1.2 million pesos, a project expected to directly benefit more than 40,000 residents in the surrounding area.
“The expansion joint repair was carried out with an investment of around 1.2 million pesos, benefiting more than 40,000 residents,” said Vargas González.
Carlos Gastélum Félix, Director of Municipal Public Works and Urban Infrastructure, explained that the joint had failed due to combustion damage originating beneath the bridge, where individuals had been taking shelter.
In addition to replacing the damaged component, crews installed concrete walls to block access under the structure and protect it.
“By placing these barriers, we hope to prevent people from continuing to stay underneath the bridge and, in turn, extend the service life of the new joint,” Gastélum said.
Mayor Abdiel Gutiérrez reiterated that these actions are intended to deter vandalism and unauthorized entry into restricted zones, both of which have previously compromised the bridge’s integrity.
El Chaparral Bridge Is Now Open
José Luis Portillo Reyes, municipal delegate for Downtown Tijuana, noted the high volume of daily traffic the bridge carries and its crucial role in alleviating congestion around the El Chaparral area.
With the completion of all work, the mayor confirmed that drivers can once again rely on the bridge for their daily commutes.
“As of this moment, the El Chaparral bridge is ready and available for use,” he said.
The reopening marks a return to normalcy after a week of intensive maintenance and repairs.
