Baja California is at a pivotal moment in its development, with three major infrastructure projects aimed at improving mobility, boosting trade, and strengthening cross-border ties with the United States. Though all have faced delays, they remain underway and represent an ambitious vision for the state’s future.
Elevated Viaduct
This is one of the most anticipated projects, designed to connect the San Ysidro Port of Entry and Playas de Tijuana to streamline access to the Tijuana International Airport. The route aims to divert heavy traffic away from urban areas while reducing noise and air pollution.
According to Mexico’s National Infrastructure Fund (Fonadin), the viaduct will span 10.5 kilometers in total: 6.6 km of elevated roadway, 0.8 km of bridges, 1.4 km of tunnels, 1.5 km of false tunnels, and just 0.2 km at ground level. The project is intended to expedite merchandise crossings through Tijuana Customs and benefit thousands of drivers.
Authorities initially announced it would be completed by April 2025, but construction delays have pushed back the timeline, with no new official date yet confirmed.


Ensenada-San Diego Ferry
This service was designed as a faster alternative to traditional border crossings. The trip will cover 70 nautical miles in roughly 2.5 hours, with fares estimated at $50–$60 per passenger.
The vessel, with a capacity for 330 people, will offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, a cafeteria, restrooms, accessibility for people with disabilities, and outdoor seating. Azteca Ferries will also allow service animals on board.
Baja California’s Minister of Economy and Innovation, Kurt Honold Morales, stated that the ferry was expected to arrive in Ensenada on July 28. However, the Port of San Diego clarified that pending permits and reviews by state and federal agencies are still required, delays that have even prevented test sailings.


Otay Mesa II: Port of Entry to Ease Congestion
Tijuana handles the busiest border traffic in the world. The growing pressure from tourist and commercial crossings demands urgent solutions, prompting authorities to push forward with the Otay Mesa II Port of Entry, aimed at relieving vehicle and commercial flow.
While Mexico completed its portion of the project on schedule, the U.S. has yet to begin construction. The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) reported that work on the American side won’t start until fall 2025, over two years behind schedule.
Progress has been stalled by budget shortfalls, design flaws, and administrative hurdles from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
