Quito Reports $2 Billion in Public Works Since 2023 — Metro Extension to La Ofelia Confirmed

The Numbers

Quito Mayor Pabel Muñoz presented a sweeping infrastructure update this week. Since taking office on May 14, 2023, his administration reports:

• 1,900 projects completed
• $2 billion invested in public works
• $700 million in additional projects planned for 2026
• Total portfolio exceeds $6 billion

Muñoz: "Al día de hoy hemos entregado 1.900 obras con una inversión de $ 2.000 millones."

Metro Extension Confirmed

The biggest infrastructure development: Quito confirmed the Metro extension to La Ofelia in the city's north. Spanish firm Técnica y Proyectos S.A. (Typsa) has been awarded the feasibility study contract for $80 million.

Future plans include extending further toward Calderón and purchasing new train units. No timeline for construction was announced.

For context, the Metro launched its first line (El Labrador to Quitumbe) in late 2023 after years of delays. The La Ofelia extension would serve the densely populated northern districts.

Other Key Projects

Water infrastructure: New transmission lines for Paluguillo, La Merced, and Alangasí — all growing areas east and south of Quito that have seen significant residential expansion.

Environmental: Mitigation work on El Tejado creek and plans to recover creek systems forming the Machángara and Monjas rivers. A major environmental complex is in feasibility studies (complete by November), with Metro Concejo debate planned for December under a public-private partnership model.

Security: A $21 million security strategy benefiting 2.8 million residents, with over 2,000 coordinated operations conducted.

Transit integration: The integrated revenue system has generated 3 million trips and distributed 74,000 City cards. Full service expansion to Ecovía, Trolebús, and terminals is scheduled for April 30.

What This Means for Expats

Tumbaco and Cumbayá valley residents benefit most from the water infrastructure investments in Paluguillo, La Merced, and Alangasí — areas where development has outpaced water supply.

North Quito expats will eventually benefit from the Metro extension to La Ofelia, though construction is likely years away. The feasibility study alone is an $80M commitment.

The City card expansion matters. If you use any combination of Metro, Trolebús, Ecovía, or bus terminals, the integrated fare card rolling out April 30 should simplify your commute. Get the card early.

Property implications: $2 billion in completed works plus $700 million planned is substantial municipal investment. Areas near new water infrastructure and future Metro stations are the ones to watch for property value changes.

Source: El Universo