SICT Boosts Investment in Highway Rest Stops

Mexico’s Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transport (SICT) is issuing a formal call for investment in the construction and expansion of roadside rest stops, known as “Paradores,” along federal highways. The announcement, made by Minister Jesús Esteva and published in the Official Gazette of the Federation, aims to enhance road safety, promote infrastructure modernization, and support the logistics and transportation sector.

The initiative focuses on offering comprehensive rest areas in zones adjacent to federal highway rights-of-way. These rest stops are especially designed to support long-haul drivers and those in the federal freight transport sector, aligning with NOM-087-SCT-2-2017, which regulates driving times and rest periods for drivers.

These areas are envisioned to include, but not be limited to: rest and shelter areas for drivers, dining services and clean restrooms, overnight accommodations, emergency medical services, fuel refilling stations and parking for light vehicles, buses, and cargo trucks. The facilities will be customized to the geographic and operational needs of each highway segment, contributing to reduced accident rates and improved logistics infrastructure.

Priority Highway Segments

While the program is open to all interested investors, priority will be given to high-traffic or underserved highway sections with elevated accident rates. These include:

• Puebla–Cordoba (Route 150D, toll)

• Amozoc–Perote (Route 140D, toll)

• Coatzacoalcos–Villahermosa (Route 180, free)

• Nogales Bypass (Route 15D, toll)

• Queretaro–San Luis Potosi (Route 57, free)

• Magdalena de Kino–Nogales (Route 15, free)

• Mexico–Queretaro (Route 57D, toll)

• Santa Ana–Altar (Route 2, toll)

• Tejocotal–Tuxpan (Route 132D, toll)

• Estación Don–Nogales (Route 15D, toll)

• La Tinaja–Acayucan (Route 145D, toll)