The Mexico City government announced the modernization of Metro Line 3, with an investment of 41 billion pesos and the acquisition of 45 new trains. Works will start at the end of January or early February at Universidad station, avoiding interference with the 2026 World Cup. The renovation is tentatively set to complete by the end of 2028.
On January 7, Mexico City Head of Government Clara Brugada presented the modernization plan for Metro Line 3, which connects Indios Verdes to Universidad and opened its first section in 1970. This line, one of the system's oldest, will undergo phased interventions to address its deterioration, which causes prolonged waiting times and reduced speeds.
The total investment is 41 billion pesos, including the purchase of 45 new trains, whose delivery will take two years. Brugada explained: “The trains are not quick to make; it takes two years for delivery.” Expected benefits include a 30% capacity increase, train frequencies under two minutes, reduced energy consumption, and improved safety.
Works will start at Universidad station—opened in 1983 and key for UNAM students—with garage and facility upgrades at the end of January or early February. Interior works begin at the end of July 2026, after the 2026 World Cup, where Estadio Azteca will host five matches, including the opener between Mexico and South Africa. The schedule avoids full closures during the event.
To minimize impacts, closures will be by sections, similar to Line 1, and possibly nighttime works. At Universidad, seven new exterior escalators, four interior ones, two side platforms, an exterior elevated walkway, and five renewed elevators will be installed. It will connect to Trolebús Line 14, Cablebús Line 4, and CETRAM Universidad, with space for 200 bicycles and relocation of over 140 commerces.
Brugada emphasized: “We understand what it means, but we will seek a scheme. We've learned a lot from Line 1. We want to improve as much as possible.” The Mobility Secretariat and Metro will coordinate a plan to affect users as little as possible, especially UNAM students.
