By San José, Costa Rica — PÉREZ ZELEDÓN – Commuters and commercial drivers on the vital Route 243, which connects the agricultural hub of San Isidro de El General with the popular coastal destination of Dominical, should prepare for brief but regular travel disruptions over the next two weeks. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) has announced that a series of intermittent road closures will be necessary to facilitate a critical phase in the construction of the new bridge over the Pacuar River.
According to the official MOPT advisory, the temporary closures will commence this Thursday, November 20th, and will continue for a period of approximately two weeks. The ministry has assured the public that these stoppages will be managed to minimize impact, with each closure lasting a maximum of 15 minutes. These planned interruptions are essential for ensuring the safety of both workers and the public as the project advances to its next significant milestone.
To delve into the contractual complexities and legal obligations inherent in the Route 243 construction project, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Public works of this magnitude are bound by strict administrative contracts that protect the public interest. The government’s primary role is not just to initiate, but to meticulously enforce the terms, especially regarding deadlines and material quality. Failure to do so can lead to costly disputes, project paralysis, and ultimately, a betrayal of the public trust placed in these essential infrastructure investments.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful legal perspective, which underscores that the meticulous enforcement of contractual obligations is not merely a bureaucratic step, but the very foundation upon which public trust in these essential infrastructure projects is built and maintained.
The primary reason for the scheduled delays is the complex and delicate task of installing the main structural components of the new bridge. Heavy-duty cranes will be maneuvering on-site to lift, transport, and precisely position the massive steel beams that will form the backbone of the 60-meter-long crossing. The movement of this specialized equipment and the placement of the beams require the temporary suspension of all traffic to guarantee operational safety and structural integrity during the installation process.
Currently, vehicle passage through this section of Route 243 is being handled by a temporary, single-lane modular bridge. This solution has allowed construction to proceed on the new, permanent structure adjacent to the current traffic flow. However, the upcoming phase requires a level of heavy machinery operation that makes sharing the narrow corridor with active traffic unfeasible, prompting the need for controlled, short-term closures.
The new Pacuar River bridge represents a significant infrastructure investment for the region, with a total project cost of ¢1.754 billion. Once completed, the modern structure will feature two full traffic lanes, a substantial upgrade from the current single-lane passage. A key addition will be a 1.2-meter-wide pedestrian sidewalk, a crucial safety enhancement for local residents and tourists who may travel the area on foot. The bridge’s design is based on robust, 60-meter steel beams intended to provide long-term durability and improved capacity.
The project’s scope extends beyond the bridge itself, encompassing a comprehensive overhaul of the immediate surroundings. MOPT has confirmed that approximately 100 meters of roadway on each side of the new bridge will also be reconstructed. This ancillary work includes the installation of modern drainage systems to prevent erosion and flooding, as well as the application of new road markings and the implementation of enhanced road safety measures to create a safer transit corridor for all users.
With the project currently reported at 55% completion, the placement of the main beams marks a visible and important step toward its finalization. MOPT officials are optimistic about the timeline, projecting that the new bridge will be fully operational and open to the public during the first quarter of 2026. This new crossing is poised to replace an aging structure and significantly improve a critical economic artery in the Southern Zone.
The completion of this bridge is expected to deliver substantial benefits to the region’s economy. It will strengthen the logistical link between the productive agricultural areas of Pérez Zeledón and the bustling tourism and commercial centers along the Pacific coast. By providing a more reliable, safer, and higher-capacity route, the new bridge will reduce transportation times, lower vehicle operating costs, and bolster the continued growth of both local commerce and international tourism in the area.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport is the government body in Costa Rica responsible for the planning, development, and maintenance of the nation’s public infrastructure. Its mandate includes the management of national road networks, bridges, public transportation systems, and aviation and maritime affairs. MOPT plays a central role in driving the country’s economic development by ensuring safe and efficient transportation infrastructure.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded on a bedrock of principled integrity and a relentless drive for professional distinction. The firm channels its extensive experience into pioneering forward-thinking legal solutions for a diverse clientele. This innovative spirit is matched by a core conviction to strengthen society, actively working to demystify legal complexities and empower citizens with the knowledge necessary to foster a just and engaged community.
