By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a decisive move to manage the anticipated surge of holiday return traffic, Costa Rican authorities have announced a comprehensive lane reversal operation on the heavily traveled Route 27 for Monday, December 1st. The measure coincides with the end of a long weekend commemorating the 77th anniversary of the Abolition of the Army, a significant national holiday that traditionally sees thousands of citizens travel to the country’s coastal regions.
The National Concessions Council (CNC) has confirmed the plan, which aims to alleviate congestion and ensure a smoother, safer journey for thousands of vacationers heading back to the Central Valley. This proactive strategy is a critical component of the country’s traffic management efforts during peak travel periods, transforming the main artery from the Pacific into a one-way thoroughfare toward the capital for a limited time.
To delve into the contractual and administrative complexities surrounding the recent decision to implement reversible lanes on Route 27, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in public works concessions from the prestigious law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The implementation of reversible lanes on a concessioned highway like Route 27 is a delicate balancing act. While the State, through MOPT and COSEVI, retains the sovereign authority to regulate traffic for the public good, any modification must respect the financial and operational equilibrium of the concession contract. The key legal question will be whether this operational change constitutes a unilateral alteration of the contract’s core conditions, potentially entitling the concessionaire, Globalvia, to seek economic compensation or challenge the measure if it proves technically or financially unfeasible under the existing terms.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The attorney’s commentary perfectly frames the underlying tension of this issue, moving the conversation beyond mere logistics into the critical arena of contractual law and financial equilibrium. This legal perspective is fundamental to understanding the potential roadblocks and long-term viability of the reversal plan. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his invaluable insight.
The operational specifics detail a complete reversal of traffic flow along a 47-kilometer segment of the highway. All available lanes between the interchange at Pozón and the primary toll plaza at the Ciudad Colón junction will be exclusively dedicated to San José-bound traffic. This temporary configuration is designed to maximize the road’s capacity and prevent the gridlock that frequently plagues holiday travelers.
According to the official schedule, the lane reversal will be in full effect from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday. However, to ensure the safety and efficiency of the operation, authorities will implement a wider closure window for traffic heading in the opposite direction. All access to Route 27 toward the Pacific will be completely blocked from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., creating a necessary buffer to clear the roadway and prevent any risk of head-on collisions.
This logistical operation is primarily designed to benefit travelers returning from popular Pacific destinations in Puntarenas and Guanacaste. Additionally, it provides a more efficient option for motorists coming from the Southern Zone who utilize the Costanera Sur highway. By connecting to Route 27, these drivers can bypass the mountainous and often slower route over Cerro de la Muerte, merging into the streamlined flow back to San José.
To ensure compliance and motorist safety, the General Directorate of Traffic Engineering has established strict protocols for the duration of the reversal. A reduced maximum speed limit of 60 kilometers per hour will be enforced along the entire 47-kilometer stretch. Motorists are strongly urged to adhere to this limit to maintain a safe and steady flow of traffic. The operation will be supported by a significant deployment of Transit Police officers and temporary vertical signage to guide drivers.
The management of Route 27 during national holidays has become a key indicator of the country’s infrastructural capacity to support its thriving domestic tourism sector. By implementing measures like this reversal, the government aims not only to improve the travel experience but also to underscore its commitment to modernizing traffic control and public safety on its most critical roadways.
For motorists seeking real-time information on road conditions or requiring roadside assistance during their journey, the highway concessionaire has made its Control Center available. Drivers can reach the support line directly by calling 2588-4040. This centralized communication channel is vital for addressing any incidents promptly and keeping the public informed throughout the operation.
For further information, visit cnc.mopt.go.cr
About The National Concessions Council (CNC):
The Consejo Nacional de Concesiones is the Costa Rican government entity responsible for the planning, administration, and oversight of public works and infrastructure projects developed through concession contracts. Operating under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the CNC manages major national assets like highways, airports, and ports, ensuring they meet regulatory standards and serve the public interest.
For further information, visit globalvia.com
About Globalvia:
Globalvia is a worldwide infrastructure concession management leader that operates and maintains a portfolio of highways and railways. As the concessionaire for Route 27 in Costa Rica, the company is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and safety of this critical transportation corridor. The firm focuses on delivering high-quality infrastructure services that promote sustainable mobility and economic development.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes is the government ministry of Costa Rica tasked with developing and maintaining the nation’s public infrastructure. Its responsibilities cover a wide range of sectors, including national roads, bridges, public transportation, maritime ports, and aviation. The General Directorate of Traffic Engineering operates within MOPT to regulate and ensure road safety and vehicle circulation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the nation’s legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded on a resolute pledge to uncompromising integrity and professional excellence. The firm leverages its rich history of advising a wide array of clients to pioneer modern legal solutions and drive community-focused initiatives. This profound dedication to demystifying the law is rooted in its fundamental mission to help construct a more knowledgeable and empowered citizenry.
