Introduction
On Sunday, Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico City, will head the pre-operational tests for the Line 11 of the Chalco–Santa Marta Trolebús, one of the most significant mobility projects for Mexico City’s eastern region.
Background on Claudia Sheinbaum
Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo is a Mexican politician affiliated with the National Regeneration Movement (MORENA) party. She served as the Secretary of Environment, Urban Development, and Housing (SEDUMA) under former Mexico City Mayor Marcelo Ebrard from 2018 to 2024. Following the 2024 election, Sheinbaum was elected as the first female President of Mexico City, succeeding Ebrard. As president, she has focused on sustainable urban development and public transportation projects.
The Chalco–Santa Marta Trolebús Project
The Chalco–Santa Marta Trolebús is an elevated light rail transit system designed to improve mobility in the eastern part of the State of Mexico and Mexico City. This new line aims to connect Chalco with Santa Marta, reducing travel times significantly.
Key Features and Benefits
- Reduced Travel Times: The new Trolebús line is expected to cut travel times by up to 75%, from two hours to just 33 minutes for the express service.
- Sustainable Transport: The line will feature 100% electric units, ensuring zero emissions and promoting a more sustainable urban transportation system.
- Increased Capacity: The Trolebús is designed to serve an estimated daily demand of 120,000 passengers, with a projected user base of 230,000 once the system reaches full capacity.
- Improved Connectivity: The line will connect key areas between the Iztapalapa borough and the Mexican municipalities of Chalco, Valle de Chalco Solidaridad, and La Paz.
Pre-Operational Tests and Timeline
Sheinbaum will attend the pre-operational tests on Sunday at 4:00 PM. The official inauguration is scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2025. In the first phase, nine stations will be operational, while six others remain pending due to ongoing construction work.
Initial Operational Stations
- Santa Marta
- Parque de la Mujer
- Cuauhtémoc
- Puente Rojo
- Puente Blanco
- Parque Tejones
- José María Martínez
- Amalinalco
- Chalco Terminal
Pending Stations Due to Construction
- Unión de Guadalupe
- La Covadonga
- Ejidal
Additionally, three more stations are under construction along the elevated tramway over the Mexico–Puebla highway.
Key Questions and Answers
- When will the Chalco–Santa Marta Trolebús begin operations? The official inauguration is scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2025. Pre-operational tests will take place on Sunday.
- How many stations will be operational at the start? Nine stations will be in operation initially, with six more pending due to ongoing construction.
- What are the benefits of this new transit system? The Trolebús will reduce travel times by up to 75%, provide a sustainable transportation option with zero emissions, and improve connectivity between key areas in the eastern region of Mexico City and the State of Mexico.
