New Brazilian tunnel proposed to connect Santos and Guarujá

In Brazil plans are being set out for a new tunnel that would connect the coastal cities of Santos and Guarujá. The project is estimated to cost some US$803 million to construct, according to a report by Business News Americas. The tunnel would by 1.7km long, carry six lanes of traffic and be at an estimated depth of 35m. A process for pre-qualification for those firms showing an interest in the project has been started. This is being handled by the São Paulo state highway company 6344 Dersa, which states that only consortia, partnerships or other associations may participate. Single firms are not being allowed to bid for the project, while groups applying should not contain more than four parties and at least two have to be Brazilian. There are also requirements regarding minimum capital levels, subcontracting percentages and participation levels for parties involved in each group.