Introduction and Background
On October 7, 2025, Clara Brugada Molina, the Head of Government of Mexico City, announced the commencement of “Cualli Ohtli,” a strategic road resurfacing program targeting primary thoroughfares in the capital. This initiative aims to tackle the deterioration of asphalt on major avenues through a substantial, multi-year investment.
Investment and Scope
- An investment of 2,600 million pesos will kickstart the program on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
- The project will resurface 3.5 million square meters of asphalt, equivalent to 250 kilometers of primary roads.
- 69 primary thoroughfares will be addressed, including 35 major avenues, 9 significant access roads to the city, and 25 principal streets.
Details of the Program
The “Cualli Ohtli” program focuses on comprehensive resurfacing of specific segments of the 69 prioritized primary roads, emphasizing those with extensive damage. The bpatching approach is deemed a temporary fix, while resurfacing offers a long-term solution to the city’s infrastructure challenges.
To minimize disruptions, nocturnal construction will be implemented. The program’s goal is to enhance the city’s urban infrastructure fundamentally, ensuring durability and quality through timely execution, preferably during the dry season following the rainy period.
Strengthening Capabilities
Brugada highlighted the importance of bolstering the Secretariat of Works and Services’ capacity for self-administration, including acquiring specialized machinery. The Secretariat has already purchased five work trains, with plans to acquire more annually.
The budget for urban infrastructure in the city’s boroughs has increased by 8.8%, allocating over 4,000 million pesos for infrastructure projects such as bpatching and paving.
Support from Other Secretariats
Secretary of Administration and Finance, Juan Pablo de Botton Falcón, confirmed the program’s financial backing through increased investment in urban infrastructure and fiscal resources. This year, the city’s investment has risen by 17%, with an 8.8% increase for the boroughs, specifically earmarked for urban infrastructure.
Secretary of Mobility, Héctor Ulises García Nieto, emphasized that these actions will significantly improve Mexico City’s mobility conditions, complementing the historic investment in transportation. The infrastructure renewal will shorten travel times and elevate the population’s commuting experience.
Safety Assurances
Subsecretary of Traffic, Cristian Raymundo Sumano Salazar, guaranteed the safety of workers and road users during nocturnal closures. He also committed to informing the public about alternative routes.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the “Cualli Ohtli” program? It’s a strategic road resurfacing initiative in Mexico City, targeting primary thoroughfares with substantial deterioration.
- When and where will the program begin? The program starts on October 8, 2025, focusing on 69 primary roads across Mexico City.
- What is the investment amount and duration? The program has a 2,600 million pesos budget, spanning from October 2025 to May of the following year.
- How will construction impact traffic? Nocturnal construction will minimize disruptions, with alternative routes communicated to the public.
- What are the long-term goals of this program? The initiative aims to enhance Mexico City’s urban infrastructure fundamentally, ensuring durability and quality through timely execution.
