Jalisco Presents Five Key Strategic Projects

On Friday, Governor of Jalisco Pablo Lemus presented five key strategic projects to President Claudia Sheinbaum, aimed at driving the state’s development. Among the most significant proposals was the launch of Line 5 of the mass public transportation system, a project poised to enhance mobility and contribute to the region’s environmental and urban transformation.

Line 5 of the Light Rail

The highlight of these initiatives is Line 5, a mass transportation system that promises to enhance urban mobility in Guadalajara. The 18.5km route will connect the Guadalajara International Airport to Parque Agua Azul in the city center, with branches leading to the Akron Stadium and Expo Guadalajara. The project also includes the rehabilitation of the Chapala highway, incorporating two additional lateral lanes, bike lanes, sidewalks with universal accessibility, and two exclusive lanes for public transit.

Lemus says that this project is a major step forward for both the environment and urban renewal. The new system is expected to reduce local pollutants by 92%, significantly improving air quality along the corridor. Travel times are expected to decrease by 42%, saving commuters 50 minutes daily. With an investment of about MX$13.5 billion (US$649.75 million), the project has received approval from President Sheinbaum, who instructed her team to assist with financing through Fonadin and Banobras.

Line 5 approval was given during the tour to inspect the progress of Line 4 of the Light Rail, another key project for the region. The new line will significantly improve connectivity in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara. The collaboration between federal, state, and municipal authorities, along with private sector participation, has been key to ensuring the success of this project. The expected completion of Line 4 is set for the 1H25.

Guadalajara-Aguascalientes Railway 

Another crucial project introduced was the direct rail line between Guadalajara and Aguascalientes. This 188km railway will link Guadalajara with the Port of Manzanillo and reduce congestion in Irapuato, where trains face delays of up to five days. This new rail line will enhance freight transport and facilitate passenger services to Aguascalientes, San Luis Potosi, Monterrey, and Laredo. With a projected investment of MX$26.7 billion (US$1.28 billion), this project aims to capitalize on the port’s expansion and improve logistics efficiency.

At the same time, Lemus offered Sheinbaum his full support to make the Mexico-Queretaro-Guadalajara-Nogales passenger train happen.

Airport Developments

Lemus and Sheinbaum also discussed the future of the Costalegre Airport, located in La Huerta. The airport is located in a region experiencing rapid growth in tourism, and is expected to handle over 800,000 visitors by next year. By 2030, projections suggest the airport could accommodate 1 million passengers annually. The development of Costalegre Airport, including the appointment of an operator, would further stimulate tourism and economic growth in the region.

In addition, the Lagos de Moreno Airport, located in the northern part of Jalisco, is being proposed as a cargo hub. The airport’s strategic location and the region’s strong agricultural and industrial sectors make it a prime candidate for boosting competitiveness, particularly in the automotive and aerospace industries.