Santa Catarina road infrastructure and concession status

Santa Catarina is experiencing significant logistical and safety challenges due to an infrastructure deficit that has not kept pace with economic development. The state contains four of Brazil’s ten most dangerous road sections and reports a death rate on paved federal highways that is double the national average. Key corridors such as the BR-101 and BR-470 face frequent congestion and high operational costs.

In response to these issues, regional business leaders have identified infrastructure as a priority for the 2026 elections, calling for the completion of the BR-280 duplication and the creation of the ‘Via Mar’ alternative. Stakeholders have expressed concerns regarding the speed of execution and oversight by agencies such as ANTT and DNIT.

Regarding federal highway concessions, the National Land Transport Agency (ANTT) has postponed auctions for two lots in the state from 2026 to September 2027. These lots, covering sections of the BR-153, BR-282, BR-470, and BR-480, represent a combined projected investment of approximately R$ 9.1 billion. The Transport Companies Union of Western and Central-West Santa Catarina (Setcom) supported the delay, noting it provides time to advocate for essential works on the BR-153 in the Concórdia region.