COMPLETION REPORT; LOAN 522-L-013; FARM - TO - MARKET ACCESS ROAD PROGRAM

The original loan called for engineering and construction of 600 kms of access roads. Scope of loan was reduced in 7/71 to cover construction of 4 access roads totaling 113.8 kms and preparation of final engineering plans for 9 subprojects totaling 286 kms. Revision in scope was made in order to reflect increased construction costs and additional work within subprojects since the original loan authorization. Report is based on USAID staff engineering inspection made in 8/74 to evaluate road maintenance and usage. Construction of the 4 access roads was satisfactorily completed. Nevertheless, since construction, the Highway Maintenance Department has not given proper maintenance to most of the roads. This is causing deterioration of road surfaces as a result of erosion and slope slides. For instance, an inspection of the Maraita-Yuayape subproject revealed that the sub-base course is washing out and many ruts are forming. Side ditches are blocked as a result of slides and erosion. Also, a main bridge structure has not yet been built. This has limited road use to 4-wheel drive vehicles. On the other hand, the Government of Honduras is making good use of the engineering designs prepared under this loan. Report estimates that 7 of the 9 proposed subproject designs will be used, and the roads constructed by the end of 1978. The Government is undertaking complementary investment programs for highway construction and improvement in most of the areas of influence of the farm-to-market roads built under the USAID loan. During the next 5 years, the Farm-to-Market Access Road Program will start producing the benefits contemplated when this loan was made.