The authorities in El Salvador are at present evaluating options for a possible improvement project to the Panamericana Highway. The upgrade work would include widening, with the addition of two lanes and is expected to cost in the region of US$100 million. The technical studies for the project have been completed and the 2558 El Salvador Ministry of Public Works is studying various solutions. However, El Salvador's Government does not have the funds necessary for the work and hopes to secure loans to pay for the construction. The Panamericana Highway is of key importance to Central American nations as it forms an important trading link by road that effectively runs from North America through to South America. The highway carries heavy volumes of through traffic at present, with some sections operating at capacity.
