The construction of the Quinto Puente, a major infrastructure project in Ecuador, is moving forward with significant financial backing from the national government. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) has provided $35 million to the Prefecture of Guayas for the execution of this project and is working on transferring an additional $10 million.
At a press conference in Guayaquil, Minister Roberto Luque emphasized the importance of the bridge. “The work will not be stopped due to funding; it is a strategic and priority project for the Government. The resources will not cease to exist from MIT. This is a vital project for President Daniel Noboa. Today I have seen openness, but I have expressed some concern about how information reaches the Ministry for our approvals,” said Luque after meeting with Marcela Aguiñaga, Prefect of Guayas.
Between November and December 2024, MIT and the Prefecture signed agreements for constructing access roads and sections 4 and 5 of the Viaducto Sur, also known as Quinto Puente. Construction began on January 7 following years of delay.
The government views this infrastructure as essential because it will connect southern Guayaquil’s port area with main transport corridors used for shipping goods to provinces such as El Oro, Azuay, Chimborazo, Los Ríos, Santo Domingo, Pichincha, and Tungurahua. This connection aims to lower logistics costs and travel times while boosting national competitiveness.
Minister Luque reiterated that the government would continue supporting the project within existing agreements. He also shared technical observations during his discussion with Aguiñaga: “El Quinto Puente is a national project; it stimulates the economy, creates jobs, and cannot be delayed. I instructed that the technical team meet permanently. Be assured that there is total openness from the Ministry to keep moving forward,” he stated.
President Daniel Noboa’s administration has reaffirmed its commitment to inter-institutional coordination and collaboration with local governments to advance projects like Quinto Puente. According to officials, this bridge is expected not only to improve mobility and logistics but also bring significant changes to Ecuador’s road infrastructure.
