Santiago takes a step into the future: The Integrated Transport System revolutionizes the Heart City
President Luis Abinader presented the progress of the Santiago Integrated Transport System, a project that marks a turning point in the province’s infrastructure and mobility. This initiative, considered the largest undertaking in the region’s history, seeks to transform urban dynamics and boost the competitiveness of the Heart City.
During the “LA Agenda” meeting, focused on mobility, it was highlighted that this strategic plan aims to decentralize economic opportunities and curb mass migration to the capital, providing Santiago residents with modern transportation solutions.
A milestone in engineering and speed
Jhael Isa, director of the Office for the Development of Urban and Interurban Mobility Projects, highlighted the speed of execution of this work, which has completed its critical phases in just over four years. The system is not only a benchmark for construction, but also for operational efficiency.
- Cutting-edge monorail: A 13-kilometer route with 14 stations, capable of reaching speeds of up to 80 km/h and a frequency of 90 seconds between trains.
- Robust infrastructure: The project integrates 716 columns, more than a thousand beams, a specialized workshop-depot, and strategic tunnels to preserve the heritage of the Monumental Zone.
- Total connectivity: The system is complemented by a cable car, seven bus corridors, and a modern public bicycle scheme.
The Santiago Monorail is positioned as the first of its kind in the entire Caribbean and Central American region, marking a technological milestone for the country.
The authorities confirmed that the system will begin its circulation tests in October, projecting the start of guided tours and commercial operation by the end of the year.
Economic impact and accessibility for the citizen
One of the pillars of the project is the family economy. With an integrated fare of RD$35.00, users will be able to transfer between the cable car, OMSA buses, and the monorail, which represents a significant relief for the pockets of workers and students.
The network will connect key hubs from Cienfuegos to Beijing, facilitating access to universities and free trade zones. This system not only benefits Santiago, but also becomes an articulating axis for the entire Cibao region, strengthening the development of provinces such as Puerto Plata, La Vega, Espaillat, Duarte, and Hermanas Mirabal.
With this infrastructure, Santiago consolidates itself as the economic engine of the Cibao, offering its inhabitants first-world standards of living and mobility.
