A new highway is being proposed for Chile’s Chiloé island. The new route would feature two lanes in either direction.
Construction work for the new suspension bridge linking Chiloé island to the Chilean mainland has been delayed and will not be complete for three years. However, there are concerns that once the bridge is finished, the existing road network on Chiloé island will be unable to cope with the expected influx of traffic.
The project for the Chaco Bridge has been extremely challenging with the builders having to contend with tough conditions. The channel between the mainland and the island has tough weather conditions and strong tides. The area is also known for massive earthquakes, so the suspension bridge has had to be designed to cope with huge shocks. The bridge project has been delayed due to both technical issues as well financial complications. Once complete, the bridge will replace the existing ferry service and is expected to increase tourism to the island, providing a major economic boost for the area.
