Santo Domingo, DR — On April 6, 2025, the new toll station at kilometer 32 commenced operations, signaling a significant milestone in the ongoing remodeling and expansion of the Juan Pablo Duarte Highway. While this development represents progress, it does not signify the completion of the ambitious project aimed at addressing the highway’s long-standing issues of deterioration and safety hazards.
A recent inspection by Listín Diario journalists revealed that despite recent renovations, the highway still suffers from numerous potholes. During a round trip from the Santo Domingo toll station to Santiago, over 50 potholes of varying sizes were documented. Notably, three potholes were found near the Montaña Paraíso recreation area and the Villas del Bosque ecotourism project at kilometer 52, a section that appeared to have been recently remodeled. Additionally, five more potholes were identified between Villas Las Marías and the San José del Puerto detachment, despite evident paving efforts.
Further along the route, 11 potholes were counted from kilometer 58 to the entrance of Bonao, and another 12 were observed from Talleres Juma to the Sabaneta bridge in La Vega. In the north-south direction, seven potholes were noted between the GM Muebles store and the Atlantic gas station, with some affecting the motorcycle lanes. Near the Doña Pula barbecue restaurant and the Profesor Juan Ramón de la Cruz Primary School, six additional potholes were spotted. Although most potholes on the Piedra Blanca overpass were paved, some remained unaddressed. Finally, 10 more potholes were identified in the last 32 kilometers leading to Santo Domingo.
The Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC), responsible for the project since 2022, has made strides in repairing many potholes. However, some repaired areas still exhibit slight depressions, and several potholes remain uncovered, highlighting the challenges in achieving a fully safe and smooth roadway.