Route 7 in Mendoza awarded 20-year concession

The national government awarded the concession for 329.09 kilometers of Route 7 in Mendoza for a 20-year term. The corridor will have four toll stations and an estimated investment exceeding US$300 million.

The route connects Mendoza with Chile through the Cristo Redentor pass and plays a key role in regional mining logistics. Lime produced in San Juan is transported through this corridor to Chilean mining operations, while it is also a potential gateway that future Argentine copper projects could evaluate for access to Pacific ports.

The award was granted to a temporary joint venture comprising Laugero Construcciones S.A., Green S.A., and Corporación del Sur S.A. The contract includes a 146.82-kilometer stretch between the San Luis and Mendoza border and the Palmira Bypass, and another 182.27-kilometer section from the junction with Route 40 to the Chilean border.

The Desaguadero and Las Cuevas toll stations will be maintained, with new stations added at San Martín/Palmira and at the Potrerillos access. The economic proposal set a toll rate of $3,090.25 plus VAT per station, 22% below the maximum established in the bid specifications. The process also includes adjustments tied to cost evolution and maintenance requirements.

The concession provides for modernizing toll collection through electronic tools, automated license plate reading, and systems designed to reduce cargo vehicle delays. The investment plan will be financed through equity contributions, bank credit, and toll revenue.

During the first 24 months, work will focus on critical sectors, including reconstruction of deteriorated slabs in high mountain areas, structural intervention on the Uspallata bridge, improvements to signage and lighting at intersections and key nodes. The final toll rate for heavy mining transport will depend on the rate structure applicable to each vehicle category.

Information from Panorama Minero.