Panama City Overpass Closed: 36-Hour Repair Underway

Panama City's 5 de Mayo Overpass Temporarily Closed for Emergency Repairs Panama City, Panama – June 3, 2025 – The 5 de Mayo overpass, a major thoroughfare connecting the 5 de Mayo area with the Coastal Beltway, was temporarily closed today due to emergency repairs. The Ministry of Public Works (MOP) announced the closure after discovering a damaged concrete slab. "We have a 1.40 x 1.40 meter slab that has failed," explained Edgar Peregrina, Director of Special Projects for the MOP. "We're replacing the entire slab, cleaning the area, installing a lost formwork, and placing a steel grill for added strength." The repairs are expected to take approximately 36 hours. The MOP is urging drivers to use alternative routes, such as the nearby roundabout on the Coastal Beltway, to avoid delays. The overpass is frequently used by Metro Buses, adding to the impact of the closure. However, with the use of fast-track concrete, the MOP aims to minimize disruption and reopen the overpass within 36 hours. The incident highlights the importance of regular maintenance on aging infrastructure. The MOP's swift response to the situation demonstrates their commitment to public safety and efficient repair of the city's vital transport links.