Reconstruction of Rio Hondo Bridge Set to Boost Chetumal-Belize Tourism and Trade

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Reconstruction of the Rio Hondo International Bridge begins Monday, March 9, in a project expected to revitalize tourism and cross-border commerce between Belize and the Mexican city of Chetumal.

The six-month project, led by the Mexican federal government and contracted to Puebla-based firm Puentes y Maniobras S.A., aims to repair structural damage on the 62-year-old bridge. The structure has operated with only one lane for years, with the other closed due to cracks and deterioration.

Josué Osmany Palomo, president of the Coparmex Chetumal business association, said the reconstruction will boost binational trade, traveler transit, and Chetumal’s economy. “This is an opportunity for customs and immigration authorities to improve service for our Belizean neighbors, who are vital to Chetumal’s economy,” Palomo stated.

He acknowledged recent complaints from Belizean visitors about discomfort and mistreatment by immigration and customs agents, pledging to work with Belizean consular officials and Mexican authorities to address these issues.

The Rio Hondo bridge is one of two crossings connecting Belize and Mexico along the river border. The other, the Chac-Temal International Bridge, will host immigration offices starting Monday to process Regional Visitor Cards (TVR), which allow Belizeans to enter Mexico for up to seven days for tourism or transit.

“Starting this date, the Belizean government will launch an intensive information campaign to notify its citizens that immigration services are moving to the Chac-Temal International Bridge,” officials announced.

The reconstruction work, originally scheduled to begin March 2, includes repairs to guardrails, parapets, sidewalks, deck slabs, pedestrian walkways, metal structures, bridge heads, pilings, access walls, and installation of signage.

Palomo credited Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama for securing the federal investment to benefit Chetumal.