Mota-Engil Mexico to Lead Major Metro Line 3 Overhaul
Mexico City, September 22, 2026 – Mota-Engil México, S.A.P.I. de C.V. has been awarded the contract for the integral renovation of Metro Line 3 in Mexico City. This decision follows a selection process by the Public Trust for Administration and Payment BM/5131 (FICO) to identify an investment partner for the co-investment project.
The formalization of this project is contingent on its inclusion in Mexico City’s project portfolio, an economic-financial evaluation by the Secretariat of Administration and Finance, and, if applicable, the authorization of corresponding financial mechanisms. The proposed financial scheme will be presented to the Mexico City Congress as part of the 2027 Economic Package.
Mota-Engil’s Proposal: Lower Cost, Higher Score
The Secretariat of Administration and Finance reported in an informational brief that Mota-Engil’s proposal scored 90.44 out of a possible 100 points, achieving 88.05 points in the technical evaluation and a perfect 100 in the economic assessment. This made it the only one of two received proposals to meet all requirements outlined in the Guidelines and Selection Criteria.
Furthermore, Mota-Engil’s bid presented the lowest cost, with an accumulated payment for availability and operation totaling 25.1804 billion pesos. This figure is 43 percent lower than the proposal submitted by the group led by ICA Constructora, S.A. de C.V., the other participant in the tender.
The agency highlighted that the selection process was open to both national and international companies with proven financial capacity and expertise in railway infrastructure. Following the publication of the invitation in the Official Gazette on June 19 and the Guidelines and Selection Criteria on July 14, a total of 11 interested parties registered, including rolling stock manufacturers and construction companies.
On September 7, two proposals were received during a public event. Both were jointly evaluated by the Collective Transportation System (STC) Metro, the Secretariat of Mobility, and the Secretariat of Administration and Finance, with oversight from the Internal Control Body.
Scope of the Renovation Project
The project entails a comprehensive renovation of Metro Line 3, which runs from Indios Verdes to Universidad. Key aspects of the renovation include:
- 45 new trains: Enhancing capacity and passenger experience.
- Integral track replacement: Improving safety and operational efficiency.
- Modernization of electrical, control, and signaling systems: Upgrading technology for better performance.
- Rehabilitation of stations: Improving infrastructure and accessibility.
The main construction works are slated to commence in 2027. Importantly, no station closures or service interruptions are anticipated during 2026.
No Privatization, No Fare Increase
The capital administration also emphasized that this scheme does not imply the privatization of either Line 3 or the Metro system as a whole. Additionally, the service fare will not be modified, ensuring continued affordability for commuters.
This significant investment aims to modernize a crucial part of Mexico City’s public transportation network, promising improved service and efficiency for millions of daily commuters.
