The long-awaited duplication of BR-135 in the Central region of Minas is becoming a reality, bringing relief to drivers and boosting local development. With 50 kilometers of doubled road, this is news that deserves to be celebrated. In this article, we will explore the details of this important achievement.
Drivers traveling along the BR-135 highway, between the municipalities of Curvelo and Corinto, in the Central region of the state, now have 50 kilometers of dual carriageways. The works are foreseen in the concession contract with the Government of Minas Gerais, managed by the State Secretariat for Infrastructure, Mobility and Partnerships (Seinfra), and were delivered between February and August 2023.
According to the Eco135 concessionaire's schedule, an additional 40 kilometers of duplicated lanes should be opened to traffic in the coming months, totaling 90 kilometers by the end of this year.
The company is also carrying out rehabilitation and recovery works on more than 200 kilometers of pavement along the entire concession stretch, which, in addition to BR-135, includes the MG-231 and LMG-754 highways, connecting the Central and Northern regions of Minas Gerais. .
Furthermore, around 43 kilometers of additional lanes were implemented, increasing traffic capacity on BR-135.
Catwalks
The safety of pedestrians who need to cross the highways is also a priority in the concession. Five walkways have already been implemented and made available to users. Currently, work on three other crossings is ongoing, with delivery expected by December 2023. This year, work will begin on two other walkways.
Intersections
Traffic fluidity and safety were reinforced with the delivery of five bridges and the lengthening of a viaduct. By the end of this year, four other bridges and two more viaducts are scheduled to be delivered, along with the duplications.
Montes Claros Ring Road
The concessionaire is still focusing on mobilizing the implementation and readjustment of the eastern section of the Montes Claros Ring Road. Currently, the works are located in section C, on LMG-653, with reconstruction works on roadside roads, with restoration and adaptation of the existing highway. Work has also begun on the junction between BR-135 and the Ring Road.
The Montes Claros Ring Road will serve one of the largest road junctions in the country, an important logistical integration between the BR-135, BR-365 and BR-251 highways. The work will also remove heavy vehicle traffic from the city's urban area and improve access to the new industrial district.
Work on site is ongoing, with activities carried out in two shifts.
Investments
Since the beginning of the BR-135 concession, more than R$ 1.5 billion have already been invested in works and services, ensuring greater safety, comfort and efficiency for users of 364 kilometers of network, covering the BR-135 highways (Montes Claros , Bocaiúva, Engenheiro Navarro, Joaquim Felício, Buenópolis, Augusto de Lima, Corinto, Curvelo and Paraopeba); LMG-754 (Curvelo, Inimutaba and Cordisburgo); and MG-231 (Cordisburgo and Caetanópolis).
Until the end of the contract, in 2048, it is expected that a total of R$ 2.8 billion will still be invested.
Duplication of BR-135: An Advance for the Central Region of Minas
BR-135 is one of the main highways that cross the state of Minas Gerais, connecting the capital, Belo Horizonte, to several cities in the interior and other states. The duplication of this road has been a long-standing demand from the population and will bring numerous benefits, including:
1. Enhanced Road Safety
The duplication of BR-135 will significantly contribute to traffic safety. Duplicated roads have less chance of traffic accidents and provide safer travel for all road users.
2. Reduction in Travel Time
With a wider road with two lanes in each direction, drivers will experience a reduction in travel time. This is especially important for the transport of goods and faster access to urban and rural areas.
3. Stimulating Economic Development
Transport infrastructure plays a crucial role in economic development. With BR-135 doubled, the Central region of Minas will be better connected, which will encourage investment and the growth of local businesses.
