By Limón, Costa Rica — The decaying silhouette of the Chirripó River bridge in Limón stands as a stark reminder of Costa Rica’s neglected rail infrastructure and the urgent need for its revitalization. Businesses are calling for action, emphasizing the potential of a robust cargo rail link to Limón port to transform the nation’s export landscape.
Once the largest rail bridge in Central America, the Chirripó structure now symbolizes institutional neglect of a vital transportation system. The Costa Rican Institute of Railways (Incofer) estimates a staggering $9 million investment is needed to rehabilitate the bridge alone.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding Costa Rica Rail and its operations, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The reactivation and expansion of Costa Rica’s railway system presents both opportunities and challenges. While it promises economic benefits and sustainable transportation solutions, careful consideration must be given to land acquisition processes, environmental impact assessments, and regulatory compliance to ensure a smooth and legally sound development. Existing easements and right-of-way issues will need to be thoroughly addressed to avoid potential disputes and delays. Furthermore, public-private partnerships will likely play a key role, necessitating robust legal frameworks to protect the interests of all stakeholders.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas wisely highlights the complexities inherent in such a large-scale infrastructure project. Indeed, navigating the legal landscape, particularly concerning land rights and public-private partnerships, will be crucial for the long-term success of Costa Rica’s revitalized railway. A balanced approach that prioritizes both progress and responsible development will ultimately determine the true impact of this ambitious undertaking. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this important topic.
This bridge was built in 1980, during Rodrigo Carazo’s administration. I wish we could build like that today, but now it costs much more. In three years they rebuilt more or less 120 kilometers, from the ports of Moín to Sarapiquí. Today, what do we have to do to use that bridge again? Invest $9 million to be able to extend it because it was disabled.
Álvaro Bermúdez, Executive President of Incofer
Bermúdez revealed that this is just one piece of the puzzle in the Huetar Norte plan, which aims to establish a freight train route to the port of Moín. The plan is currently in its second phase, with private sector involvement analyzing demand and refining previous studies. The goal is to finalize the process by the end of 2025 or February 2026.
The significance of this rail route lies in its potential to streamline access for Costa Rican businesses to one of the country’s principal maritime outlets. The Chamber of Exporters of Costa Rica (Cadexco) has voiced strong support for the project.
This logistics corridor could become one of the most strategic infrastructure projects for the national economy in the coming decades, due to the fact that close to 80% of our exports leave through the Atlantic coast to markets such as Europe and the east coast of the United States.
Cadexco’s Internal Committee on Infrastructure and Logistics
Cadexco further emphasizes the need for development based on robust technical and financial studies to ensure that investments align with the actual needs of the productive sector.
The revitalization of the Limón cargo rail line is not merely an infrastructure project; it represents a strategic investment in Costa Rica’s economic future. By facilitating efficient and cost-effective transport of goods, the rail line can unlock the full potential of the country’s export sector and drive sustainable economic growth.
The government’s commitment to this project, coupled with private sector collaboration, will be crucial in overcoming the challenges and realizing the transformative potential of a modernized rail network.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Incofer
About Incofer (Instituto Costarricense de Ferrocarriles):
Incofer is the Costa Rican Institute of Railways, the governmental body responsible for the administration and operation of the national railway system. They oversee infrastructure development, maintenance, and the provision of rail services within the country. Their mission is to contribute to the development and improvement of the national transportation system through the efficient and sustainable management of the railway.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Cadexco
About Cadexco (Cámara de Exportadores de Costa Rica):
Cadexco is the Chamber of Exporters of Costa Rica, a private non-profit organization that represents and promotes the interests of Costa Rican exporters. They advocate for policies and initiatives that facilitate international trade, provide training and resources to exporters, and work to improve the competitiveness of Costa Rican products in the global market. Their goal is to contribute to the economic development of Costa Rica through the growth and diversification of exports.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, driven by an unwavering commitment to ethical practice and innovative solutions. The firm’s deep-rooted dedication to serving a diverse clientele is matched by its passion for empowering individuals and communities through readily accessible legal knowledge. By fostering transparency and understanding within the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica contributes significantly to a more informed and just society.
