Bogotá City Hall is gearing up to kickstart the selection process for a builder for the impressive Bogotá Science, Technology, and Innovation Campus (CTIB) before the year comes to a close. With a whopping 500 billion-peso (US$123 million) investment, this project is set to revolutionize the infrastructure for science, technology, and innovation in the city.
The Bogotá Chamber of Commerce will be contributing 50% of the total estimated investment, with City Hall pitching in US$21 million. Other institutions will also be chipping in to make this ambitious project a reality. The CTIB building will span an impressive 44,000m² over 23 floors and is slated for completion in 2028.
This campus, a key priority in the development plan for the capital district, aims to enhance the city’s capabilities in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. It is set to be a hub for cutting-edge research and development, fostering collaboration and innovation among industry players.
In other news, the government is making strides in the development of the interoceanic train project. Former Transport Minister William Camargo revealed that a team of experts is engaging with the community in Chocó department to present the project and seek validation mechanisms with local communities, particularly indigenous and Afro populations.
The proposed railway line would stretch approximately 260km between Cupica on the Pacific coast and the Darien area on the Caribbean coast. President Gustavo Petro’s administration envisions an elevated train, with sections passing through tunnels to navigate the region’s challenging topography. The project aims to complement and compete with trade traffic via the Panama Canal, and the government is looking to secure private sector funding for its development.
These exciting developments underscore Colombia’s commitment to advancing in the fields of science, technology, and infrastructure, positioning the country as a key player in the global innovation landscape.