Guanajuato Plans Road Expansion If Federal Investment Fails

SILAO, Guanajuato — The State Secretariat of Infrastructure (SOP) is considering a concession to expand the Silao-San Felipe highway if the federal government opts not to invest in its improvement, officials announced Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

The SOP is evaluating multiple avenues to enhance highway infrastructure that is vital for local commerce and connectivity. The decision comes in light of a growing demand for better road conditions due to increased traffic and commerce in the region.

“If the federal government does not allocate funds, we will explore alternative solutions including public-private partnerships to ensure this vital roadway can accommodate future needs,” said an SOP representative during a recent press briefing.

In related news, a monitoring group named URBE reported incidents of wastewater dumping into the El Granizo stream located in the Portales de la Arboleda neighborhood. This claim has been forwarded to the León Drinking Water and Sanitation System (SAPAL) for investigation.

Meanwhile, concerning water quality issues, the Secretary of Water noted that about 30% of water sources in the state exceed permissible levels of arsenic. The government is working closely with local bottled water companies and exploring reverse osmosis processes to ensure safe drinking water for residents.

Additionally, the Enseña por México program is now accepting applications in Guanajuato, aiming to support the education of vulnerable children and adolescents in local communities. Participants can receive full scholarships along with economic aid.

Looking ahead, the World Women’s Empowerment Summit is set to take place on April 26-27, 2024, at Sala C1, followed by the Expo Funko event on May 17-18, 2024, in Sala B1, from 1:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

In manufacturing news, a local plant has begun supplying 100% of the Teramont and Cross Sport engines in the United States, 85% of the units produced in Puebla, and 30% of Audi Q5 models.

Plans for the Silao-San Felipe highway expansion are still in early discussions. If proven successful, the model may be implemented to improve other major access routes.

In education, the Guanajuato State Institute for Adult Education (INAEBA) is launching inclusive education strategies aimed at meeting UNESCO criteria to achieve the “White Flag” distinction.

The director of Urban Development, Pablo Elizondo, reported notable progress in the regularization of a community south of the city, despite facing numerous challenges along the way.

The local footwear industry is adapting to the rise of Chinese competition and potential tariffs by increasingly investing in e-commerce and omnichannel retail strategies to maintain its competitiveness.