Brazilian project attracts strong interest

RSSInterest is strong in Brazil’s BR-101 highway project. The tender for the project will open on 18th January 2012. According to Brazil's Land Transport Agency (5354 ANTT), at least six groups, most Brazilian, have shown interest in the project. The stretch to be put out to tender totals 476km, of which 458km is in Espirito Santo. The ANTT states that US$1.24 billion will be invested in the BR-101, with plans to widen the highway in stages. The concession period for the road totals 25 years and the highway will feature seven tolls. Also in Brazil, a $1.1 billion loan from the 2791 Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) will fund construction of the north section of the Mario Covas ring road around Sao Paulo city. The 44km stretch forms part of a 177km road, which is said to be one of the most important infrastructure projects ever built in Brazil. Construction work on the north section is due for completion by November 2014. Brazil's Federal government and the Sao Paulo state government will also provide $980 million and $890 million respectively for the project.