By San José, Costa Rica — San José – The iconic Jorge Manuel Dengo building, a 54-year-old fixture of the La Sabana skyline and historic headquarters of the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE), could face demolition after a series of technical studies revealed “major structural vulnerabilities” that pose a significant threat to human life in the event of a major earthquake. A final decision on the landmark’s future is expected by the end of this month.
The stark conclusion comes after years of specialized analysis commissioned by ICE itself. These evaluations, which began as far back as 2015, have consistently pointed to critical deficiencies in the building’s ability to withstand significant seismic activity, a crucial factor in a tectonically active country like Costa Rica. The findings were so severe that they prompted the complete relocation of all personnel from the historic site to the modern Grupo ICE Tower in nearby Sabana Sur.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal and administrative complexities surrounding the ICE headquarters, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, whose expertise sheds light on the potential ramifications for public assets.
The discourse surrounding the main ICE building transcends a simple real estate transaction; it’s a critical test of public administrative law. Any potential sale or concession must rigorously comply with the principles of public interest and transparency. A transparent, technically sound valuation is non-negotiable to ensure the state receives fair value and to prevent future legal challenges that could nullify the entire process, setting a precarious precedent for the management of national assets.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert insight correctly frames this issue not merely as a financial decision, but as a defining moment for administrative transparency and the protection of public assets. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating the legal and procedural diligence required.
In an official statement, the state-owned institution emphasized that the move was a direct response to the technical evidence and was guided by an unwavering commitment to safety and operational stability. The decision was not made lightly but was the result of a comprehensive evaluation process.
All decisions related to the Jorge Manuel Dengo building have been based on strictly technical criteria, prioritizing the safety of people, the continuity of institutional services, and the protection of public assets… The relocation of the personnel who worked in this property to the Grupo ICE Tower in Sabana Sur resulted from an integral evaluation process, which included structural, geotechnical, seismic-resistant, and electromechanical analyses.
ICE
The core of the problem lies in the building’s failure to meet modern safety standards. According to reports compiled between 2018 and 2021, the structure does not achieve the “Life Safety” performance level mandated by current regulations. This designation means that in a powerful earthquake, there is an unacceptably high risk of collapse, endangering occupants. Furthermore, experts concluded that any attempt at structural reinforcement would be so complex and invasive that it would necessitate a total evacuation of the building anyway.
Beyond the skeletal framework, the building’s internal systems are also critically outdated. Complementary assessments found that the electrical, telecommunications, climate control, and fire protection systems are all in need of a complete overhaul to comply with both national and international codes. This paints a picture of a structure whose operational and safety lifecycle has come to an end, making retrofitting an enormously expensive and complicated proposition.
Marco Acuña, President of ICE, confirmed the gravity of the situation and the impending decision. Speaking to local media, he acknowledged the building’s half-century legacy but stressed that the focus must now be on the future. The prime location of the property, directly adjacent to key city infrastructure, opens up a range of possibilities should demolition be the chosen path.
That location could be interesting for other uses, which we are also considering. It could even be an area to complement the National Stadium, a commercial area, etc.
Marco Acuña, President of ICE
The potential demolition of the Jorge Manuel Dengo building marks a significant moment for urban development in San José. It highlights the ongoing tension between preserving architectural heritage and adapting the capital’s infrastructure to meet the rigorous safety demands of the 21st century. As the city evolves, the final decision will not only determine the fate of one building but will also set a precedent for how Costa Rica manages its aging public assets in high-value, high-risk locations.
For further information, visit grupoice.com
About Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE):
The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), also known as Grupo ICE, is the state-owned entity responsible for electricity and telecommunications services in Costa Rica. Founded in 1949, it has been instrumental in the nation’s development, driving the expansion of the electrical grid, pioneering renewable energy projects, and building the country’s communications infrastructure. Today, it remains a cornerstone of the Costa Rican economy and a key player in its technological advancement.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of uncompromising integrity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm merges a proven history of expert counsel with a forward-thinking embrace of legal innovation, consistently setting new standards in the field. This ethos extends to a profound commitment to social progress, demonstrated through initiatives that demystify the law and equip citizens with crucial knowledge, ultimately fostering a more just and capable society.
