Development in the East is a Reality: Nayib Bukele Highlights Billion-Dollar Investment in Infrastructure in El Salvador

Under President Nayib Bukele’s leadership, the El Salvador government has committed an unprecedented $1.4248 billion to develop infrastructure in the eastern part of the country. This investment does not yet include future projects such as the Pacific Airport, tourism developments, and economic revitalization efforts in San Miguel.

During the groundbreaking ceremony for the Pacific Airport, Bukele emphasized that previous governments—led by the ARENA and FMLN parties—had repeatedly promised development in the East but failed to deliver. His administration, however, has taken concrete steps to ensure that long-overdue infrastructure projects finally become a reality.

Among these key initiatives is the San Miguel bypass, a project that past administrations had announced multiple times but never executed. Bukele’s government revived and successfully completed this project, demonstrating a commitment to the region’s progress.

Major Infrastructure Projects Underway

The investment in infrastructure in El Salvador brings new opportunities to the eastern region, significantly improving transportation, economic activity, and overall quality of life. Some of the most important projects include:

• Port of La Unión ($400 million) – The modernization of this strategic port, in collaboration with the Gilport company, is already underway. The port has begun to receive ships, signaling a revival of maritime trade and logistics in the region.
• Gerardo Barrios Beltway ($160 million for phase one) – This vital highway in San Miguel is being developed in multiple stages to improve connectivity and ease traffic congestion.
• San Antonio Bridge ($11 million) – A key bridge project to improve accessibility and transportation efficiency.
• Bridge in Carolina ($12.5 million) – Enhancing road safety and connectivity in the eastern region.
• Road to Punta Mango ($41 million) – This road will promote tourism and local economic development by improving access to one of El Salvador’s most beautiful coastal areas.
• Reconstruction in El Mozote ($28 million) – This includes building a memorial park, a school, a church, a sports complex, and new housing to preserve historical memory while improving local infrastructure.
• Additional investments in Morazán and Concepción de Oriente ($385 million+).

These projects are part of a broader investment in infrastructure in El Salvador, designed to transform the country’s eastern region into a hub of economic growth, tourism, and opportunity.

Addressing Years of Overlooked Needs

For years, previous governments largely ignored El Salvador’s eastern region. Despite being rich in natural resources and having immense tourism potential, the region suffered from underdevelopment due to a lack of political will and insufficient public investment.

President Bukele acknowledged this long-standing neglect and assured Salvadorans that his government would break the cycle of unfulfilled promises. Unlike past administrations that repeatedly announced projects without execution, his government is focused on tangible results that directly benefit the population.

The new roads, bridges, and ports will facilitate travel, attract investors, create jobs, and boost trade. The investment in infrastructure in El Salvador is expected to stimulate regional economic growth and provide new opportunities for businesses and residents.

Economic Growth and Job Creation

These infrastructure developments will majorly impact the creation of thousands of jobs. The construction sector sees increased demand for skilled and unskilled labor, benefiting local workers and businesses. Additionally, improved infrastructure will support agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, further driving economic expansion.

For example, the modernization of the Port of La Unión will make the region more attractive for international trade, potentially turning it into a key logistics hub for Central America. Similarly, projects like the road to Punta Mango will enhance tourism opportunities, bringing in more visitors and investment to the coastal areas.

Bukele’s administration sees investment in infrastructure in El Salvador as a crucial pillar of economic development. By improving roads, ports, and public spaces, the government is laying the groundwork for long-term prosperity.

Future Projects and Long-Term Vision

While the $1.4248 billion investment already represents a massive commitment, the government has hinted at even more developments in the pipeline.

The Pacific Airport project is one of the most anticipated initiatives. It is expected to revolutionize air travel in the region and attract more foreign direct investment. Additionally, tourism-focused projects will bring international visitors to the East’s beaches, historical sites, and eco-tourism locations.

Bukele has assured the public that his government’s infrastructure efforts will continue. These efforts will focus on roads and ports and improving education, healthcare, and security. This comprehensive approach will ensure that investment in infrastructure in El Salvador leads to sustained economic and social progress.

A New Era for Eastern El Salvador

With these historic investments, the East of El Salvador is finally receiving the attention it deserves. Development, investment, jobs, and economic growth are political promises and emerging realities.

As Bukele himself stated, this marks a turning point for the region. With ongoing and future projects, the eastern part of the country is set to become a center of opportunity, benefiting its residents and the entire nation.

Through strategic investment in infrastructure in El Salvador, the government is building a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous future for all Salvadorans.