Santo Domingo urban traffic and bridge maintenance

Commuters in the Greater Santo Domingo area have been experiencing daily vehicular chaos, particularly on the bridges crossing the Ozama River near Isabela. This recurring congestion has led to significant losses in time, health, and financial resources due to fuel consumption.

In response to infrastructure needs, the Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) has initiated the second phase of preventive maintenance and reinforcement on the Gregorio Luperón bridge, also known as La Barquita. To facilitate these safety works, authorities have implemented significant traffic restrictions. Heavy vehicle transit is suspended, while light vehicles face nightly closures on weekdays and full closures during weekends. Alternative routes have been established for drivers traveling between Santo Domingo Este, Santo Domingo Norte, and the Distrito Nacional.

To address long-term connectivity, the Dominican government has awarded a 4.5 billion peso contract for a new bascule bridge over the Ozama River. To be executed by the Consorcio Constructora Río Ozama over 24 months, the structure will be located 80 meters south of the current floating bridge. It will utilize a mobile arm system, similar to those in Miami, designed to reduce traffic interruptions from several hours to approximately 15 minutes.

Additionally, the Metropolitan Bus Service Operator (OMSA) has launched an integrated transport system for the EBus Cultural in the Colonial City. Passengers can utilize a single electronic payment of RD$35 via SDgo cards, credit, or debit cards, allowing transfers between OMSA electric buses, the Santo Domingo Metro, and the Teleférico within a 90-minute window.