Major nighttime traffic disruptions will begin on Panama City’s North Corridor starting Friday, February 6, 2026. The Panama Metro confirmed the start of a critical operation to transport massive monorail beams for the integration of its expanding Line 3. These operations will center on the area near the Albrook station, a key transit hub.
This logistical effort is a direct component of connecting the new Line 3 with the existing Line 1. Officials aim to move the heavy components with minimal daytime impact, scheduling the most intrusive work for overnight hours. The entire process is slated to last one month.
“The maneuvers will require caution from drivers using the shoulder of the North Corridor, near the Albrook station, where the structures will be unloaded for subsequent assembly,” the Panama Metro stated. [Translated from Spanish]
Each precast beam measures 12 meters in length and weighs approximately 36 tons. Their transport and installation are governed by strict protocols from the national Land Transit and Transportation Authority (ATTT). The beams are destined for the Line 3 Maneuvering Tail area, a section vital for the future operational integration of the entire metro network.
Phased Transport Schedule Detailed
The transport plan is divided into two distinct phases to manage public inconvenience. From February 6 through February 18, all movement will occur during a nighttime window from 9:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. A second, more intensive phase then runs from February 19 to March 6.
That second phase will see convoy activity during both daytime and nighttime hours. Crews will work from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and again from 9:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. during this period. The extended schedule reflects the complexity of moving dozens of these oversized loads.
Convoys will follow a carefully mapped route across Panama Oeste province and into the capital. The journey for each beam begins at the prefabrication plant in Puerto Vacamonte. From there, trucks will travel along the Arraiján–La Chorrera highway, proceed onto the Centenario highway, and finally enter the North Corridor.
The final leg involves using the turnaround onto Omar Torrijos Avenue to access the Albrook station construction site. This path was selected to maximize safety and minimize interference with the busiest segments of traffic where possible.
“The Panama Metro reiterates the call for users to stay attentive to signage and the instructions of transit authorities during the development of these tasks,” the entity advised in its public notice. [Translated from Spanish]
Drivers, particularly those who regularly use the North Corridor shoulder near Albrook, should expect lane closures and reduced speeds in the work zone. Transit police will be deployed to direct traffic and ensure the safety of both motorists and the construction crews.
Line 3 Integration Advances
This beam transport operation marks a visible step forward for the Panama Metro’s largest expansion project. Line 3 is a major infrastructure undertaking that will extend the city’s rapid transit network with a modern monorail system. Its connection to the existing Line 1 at Albrook is fundamental to creating a unified network.
The Albrook station itself serves as Panama City’s primary terrestrial transportation terminal. It connects metro lines, regional buses, and other services. Successfully linking the new line here is crucial for seamless passenger transfers and system efficiency.
Project managers have not announced an updated overall completion percentage for Line 3 following this beam delivery milestone. The focus remains squarely on executing this complex transport and installation sequence without incident. Further updates on the construction timeline are expected after the March 6 conclusion of this phase.
Residents and commuters are encouraged to plan alternate routes or allow for extra travel time, especially during the late February phase when work continues both day and night. Real-time updates will be provided through the Panama Metro’s official communication channels.