From The Rio Times · Iolanda Fonseca · · 1m 10s
Guatemala Bridge Costs Overvalued
Guatemala's roads directorate estimated $24.5m for three bridges but contracts cost $36.2m.
In brief
Guatemala's roads directorate estimated $24.5m for three bridges but contracts cost $36.2m. Guatemala's government says bridge contracts include extra work, but internal estimates show $89.8m overpricing. Originally reported by The Rio Times.
Guatemala Bridge Costs Overvalued
Guatemala's roads directorate estimated Q187.0 million (about US$24.5 million) for three bridges but contracts cost Q276.9 million (about US$36.2 million).
“Q187.0 million (about US$24.5 million)”
Internal Estimate vs Contract Award
The gap between internal estimate and contracts totals Q89.8 million (about US$11.8 million) for the three bridges.
“Q89.8 million (about US$11.8 million)”
Bridge Cost Discrepancy
Mocá shows the widest difference: Q74.7 million estimated against Q130.3 million awarded (about US$9.8 million and US$17.1 million).
“Q74.7 million estimated against Q130.3 million awarded”
Rule Changes Alleged
La Hora reported that tender rules changed between late April and mid-May after engineers refused to adjust costs.
“tender rules changed between late april and mid may”
Government Response
The government says contracts include demolitions, temporary crossings and protection works, not just bridges.
“contracts include demolitions, temporary crossings and protection works”
Audit Status
The state audit office has issued only a preliminary report; final ruling on contracts is unknown as of 3 October 2026.
“preliminary report; final ruling on contracts is unknown as of 3 October 2026”
What Happens Next
The government may drop contracts and offer cheaper ones, but builders reportedly object to changes.
“government may drop contracts and offer cheaper ones”
The short version
Guatemala's government says bridge contracts include extra work, but internal estimates show $89.8m overpricing.
