Mexico is entering a new chapter in modernizing its transport infrastructure with the announcement of a $1.47 billion contract for the Saltillo–Santa Catarina section of the ambitious Saltillo–Nuevo Laredo passenger rail project. The Secretariat of Communications and Transport (SICT) confirmed that the consortium of CICSA and FCC will lead the design and construction of the 111-kilometer route, with groundbreaking set for late September 2025 and completion scheduled for 2028.
This project is more than a transport upgrade—it is a statement of intent. By investing in passenger rail, Mexico is building new pathways for regional tourism, trade, and cultural connections, while offering millions of people a modern, efficient alternative to road or air travel.
Enhancing Regional Connectivity
The new passenger line, running from Saltillo to Santa Catarina, will parallel an existing Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) freight corridor. This dual system allows Mexico to expand passenger mobility without compromising critical freight operations, offering both residents and visitors a reliable travel option across northern Mexico.
The Saltillo–Santa Catarina stretch is part of a 393.9-kilometer network linking Saltillo to Nuevo Laredo on the U.S. border. Ultimately, this line will integrate into the planned 1,200-kilometer Northern Rail corridor, connecting Mexico City with the border—an unprecedented investment in long-distance, cross-border mobility.
Infrastructure Designed for Growth
The contract awarded to CICSA and FCC includes a series of essential construction works:
- 30 bridges and 15 level crossings to ensure safe travel.
- A modern station at Villa Aldama, designed as a hub for both commuters and tourists.
- Passing loops every 25 km for smoother passenger operations.
- Provisions for future double-tracking as demand grows.
With trains expected to reach 160–200 km/h, the line will be able to carry up to seven million passengers annually, offering shorter travel times and enhanced comfort.
Driving Tourism and Economic Development
Beyond daily commuting, the Saltillo–Santa Catarina line is designed to strengthen Northern Mexico tourism. The states of Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas hold vast cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and unique landscapes. Improved accessibility will allow both domestic and international travelers to explore industrial hubs like Monterrey, colonial towns in Coahuila, and natural wonders along the Sierra Madre Oriental.
Tourism experts note that dedicated passenger tracks separate from freight will create a more reliable service for travelers, boosting regional tourism flows. This opens new opportunities for rural communities along the route to benefit from visitor spending, cultural exchange, and job creation in hospitality and transport services.
Multi-Phase Construction Strategy
To ensure timely progress, the Saltillo–Nuevo Laredo project is divided into four construction lots:
- Lot 1 (Unión San Javier – Arroyo El Sauz, 100 km): Awarded to ICA for $780 million, construction began in August 2025.
- Lot 2 (Saltillo – Santa Catarina, 111 km): Awarded to CICSA and FCC for $1.47 billion, starting September 2025.
- Lot 3 (Arroyo El Sauz – Nuevo Laredo, 136.5 km): Contract to be awarded by October 2025, with bids ranging from $594 to $868 million.
- Lot 4 (Santa Catarina – Unión San Javier, 50 km): Still pending definition.
This phased structure ensures that each contractor focuses on its segment, while the overall vision progresses in parallel, aiming for full completion by 2028.
Linking Trade, Tourism, and Communities
The Saltillo–Santa Catarina passenger rail line reflects Mexico’s strategic commitment to both trade and tourism. With the Nuevo Laredo border crossing serving as a critical gateway for U.S.–Mexico commerce, improved passenger mobility will enhance cross-border travel for business and leisure alike.
For communities in Coahuila and Nuevo León, the line represents more than just infrastructure—it is a gateway to new cultural and economic opportunities. Travelers will find it easier to visit historic sites, attend regional festivals, and explore eco-tourism areas that were previously harder to access.
Federal Investment and Long-Term Vision
The federal government has allocated $72.3 million in the 2025 budget for the railway, though the total project will require sustained annual funding. Authorities argue that the long-term economic returns—job creation, tourism growth, increased regional competitiveness—far outweigh the initial costs.
Mexico’s broader railway revival strategy emphasizes sustainability, modernity, and accessibility. The Saltillo–Nuevo Laredo line will become a benchmark for future projects, setting standards in design, passenger comfort, and operational efficiency.
A Catalyst for Northern Mexico Tourism
By 2028, when trains are expected to run along the full line, travelers will be able to enjoy scenic journeys across mountains, rivers, and vibrant cities. For tourists, this represents a new way to experience Mexico—safe, fast, and connected to cultural and natural attractions.
As global tourism trends shift toward eco-friendly travel and rail becomes increasingly popular, the Saltillo–Santa Catarina route positions Mexico to capitalize on this demand. Whether for domestic tourists exploring northern heritage or international visitors arriving via the U.S. border, the line promises to redefine Northern Mexico tourism.
Conclusion
The Saltillo–Santa Catarina passenger rail project is more than a construction contract—it is an investment in Mexico’s future. With CICSA and FCC leading the build, and with federal commitment to expanding passenger rail, this project will transform mobility, connect communities, and spark tourism across northern states.
As Mexico embraces modern passenger railways, the vision is clear: a transport system that combines economic strength, cultural connectivity, and sustainable tourism opportunities.
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