Mexico-US Water Deal, LATAM Investments, Infrastructure Updates

This week’s roundup brings major shifts across infrastructure, sustainability, and international investment. Mexico and the United States have struck a timely water-sharing deal under the historic 1944 treaty, easing cross-border tensions ahead of a looming deadline. Latin American capital is flowing into Spain’s real estate market, as investors seek stability and strategic diversification. 

In the world of green building, LEED v5 has been unveiled, setting a new standard for decarbonization and resilience. Back in Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum pushes forward on modernization and mobility, with revamped Metro Line 1 stations in Mexico City and the Mexico–Queretaro high-speed train.

Your weekly dose of Infrastructure is here!

Mexico, US Reach Crucial Water Agreement Under 1944 Treaty

Mexico and the United States have reached a key agreement to address a water delivery shortfall under the 1944 Water Treaty, just months before the current cycle ends. The deal includes water transfers and increased flow from Mexican tributaries to the Rio Grande. While US officials hailed it as a diplomatic and agricultural win, Mexico emphasized sovereignty, drought challenges, and its commitment to sustainable water management.

Spain: Key Destination for LATAM Real Estate Investment

Latin American investors have increasingly turned to Spain’s real estate market, investing US$1.82 billion between 2019 and 2024, driven by Spain’s strong economic growth and Europe’s relative stability. Mexico and Brazil lead these investments, accounting for nearly 75% of the total. Attractive property discounts and strategic diversification amid global uncertainty are key motivators, with CBRE projecting continued capital inflows in the years ahead.

USGBC Launches LEED v5 to Advance Green Building Standards

The US Green Building Council has launched LEED v5, an updated green building standard focused on decarbonization, human health, and resilience. It emphasizes lifecycle emissions reductions, climate risk assessments, and healthier spaces, while offering greater flexibility and transparency for building projects. LEED v5 aims to drive high performance in sustainability and deliver strong business value across the real estate sector.

Sheinbaum Inaugurates Modernized Line 1 Stations in Mexico City

President Claudia Sheinbaum inaugurated the modernization of four key stations on Mexico City Metro’s Line 1, part of a broader overhaul to improve infrastructure, accessibility, and sustainability. The renovation includes new trains, signaling, power systems, and surveillance, reducing travel time and energy use. The line will also connect with major mobility projects like new Cablebús lines and the El Insurgente Train expansion.

Construction of the Mexico-Queretaro Train Begins

Construction has officially begun on the Mexico-Queretaro Train, a high-speed rail project that will cut travel time between the two cities to just two hours. The 226km double-track route will feature multiple strategic stops, connect with urban transit systems, and serve an estimated 6 million users annually. It is part of Mexico’s national railway expansion, led by SEDENA, alongside three other routes totaling 786km.

President Sheinbaum Greenlights Freight Phase of Mayan Train

President Claudia Sheinbaum has approved the development of freight infrastructure for the Mayan Train, expanding its role beyond passenger transport to become a major logistics platform in southeastern Mexico. The project, to be executed by SEDENA, includes 10 new freight facilities, will connect key ports and the Interoceanic Train, and aims to boost regional economic growth, creating over 26,200 direct jobs during its two-phase construction over the next 2.5 years.