Riviera Maya Airport Plans Move Forward

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The Mexican government formally solicited bids this week to build and operate a new airport near Tulum, the next official step toward making the long-discussed project a reality.

The winning company will be granted a 50 year concession on the airport, according to Investment Properties Mexico, which has been closely following the project. The airport is slotted for 3,700 acres inland from Tulum, and will be Mexico's first privately built and operated airport, the site reports.

While there are many hurdles before construction begins, the news provides further evidence that the airport may move beyond the wish list stage. With facilities for local and international flights, it could have a profound impact on the regional resort and second home market, providing an alternative to busy Cancun.

The airport is expected to handle 700,000 visitors in its first year according to government statistics.

The Secretary of Communications and Transportation is expected to award the project by the end of the year, according to a press release from Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste, the company operating the Cancun airport.

The government expects three or four groups to bid, Reuters reports.

Last month President Felipe Calderon publically endorsed the plan, providing evidence that the airport is receiving support at the highest levels of Mexico City.

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