By Alajuela, Costa Rica — Muelle de San Carlos, Alajuela – A crucial infrastructure project aimed at enhancing traffic safety and flow in Costa Rica’s Northern Zone has reached a major milestone. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) announced that the construction of a new roundabout and lane expansion at the intersection of National Routes 4 and 35 in Muelle de San Carlos is now 70% complete.
This development marks significant progress on a project designed to address one of the region’s most problematic junctions. Officials from the National Road Council’s (CONAVI) Road and Bridge Conservation Management confirmed that after completing lane expansions and significant upgrades to the drainage system, crews have now successfully profiled the final shape of the new roundabout. The next and most anticipated phase, the application of asphalt, is slated to begin in approximately two weeks.
To delve into the legal and administrative complexities inherent in a major public infrastructure project like the new San Carlos roundabout, we sought the perspective of an expert in Public and Administrative Law. TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the renowned law firm Bufete de Costa Rica for his analysis.
Large-scale public works such as the San Carlos roundabout are complex not only in their engineering but also in their legal execution. The processes of expropriation for required land, adherence to the administrative contracting cartel, and compliance with environmental regulations are critical junctures where delays and legal disputes often arise. Meticulous oversight and transparent management are essential to ensure the project is completed on time and within budget, protecting public funds and minimizing inconvenience to citizens.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective provides a vital reminder that the true complexity of these large-scale works often lies not in the physical construction, but in the administrative framework that governs it. Delays that frustrate the public frequently stem from these exact procedural hurdles. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on the critical importance of transparency and rigorous oversight in ensuring such projects serve the public interest effectively.
Currently, workers are on-site placing and compacting material to achieve the precise leveling required before paving can commence. To manage the ongoing construction with minimal disruption, regulated traffic flow measures remain in place, and drivers are advised to proceed with caution when passing through the area. The project, which began in late April, is on track to deliver a long-awaited solution for the community.
The strategic importance of this intersection cannot be overstated. It serves as a vital nexus for local commerce, agriculture, and tourism, connecting key areas within the Northern Zone. For years, the crossing has been a hotspot for traffic accidents and congestion, posing risks to both drivers and a high volume of pedestrians who navigate the area daily. The primary objective of the new roundabout is to drastically reduce these frequent incidents and create a more fluid and predictable traffic environment.
The engineering scope of the project extends beyond just the road surface. Recognizing the area’s vulnerability to heavy rainfall, a substantial investment was made in improving the pluvial system. Engineers installed over 900 linear meters of reinforced concrete piping to ensure efficient water canalization. The new pipes, with diameters ranging from 60 centimeters to 1.2 meters, are designed to handle significant water volume and prevent the flooding that can compromise road integrity and safety.
This robust drainage infrastructure is considered a vital component for the long-term durability of the project. By proactively managing water runoff, MOPT and CONAVI aim to protect the new road surface from erosion and damage, ensuring the roundabout remains a reliable piece of public infrastructure for years to come in a climate known for its intense rainy seasons.
The Muelle de San Carlos roundabout is more than just a traffic management solution; it represents a key investment in the economic vitality and public safety of the Alajuela province. By improving connectivity and reducing accident rates, the project is expected to have a positive ripple effect, benefiting local businesses, transport companies, and daily commuters who rely on these routes.
As the final preparations for paving get underway, anticipation is building among local residents and business owners. The completion of this project will mark the end of a persistent traffic bottleneck and the beginning of a safer, more efficient era for one of the most dynamic regions in Costa Rica. The ministry continues to oversee the final stages, ensuring that the project meets all technical specifications before its inauguration.
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 responsible for planning, executing, and regulating Costa Rica’s public infrastructure. Its mandate covers the national road network, public transportation systems, maritime and port facilities, and aviation. MOPT plays a central role in the country’s development by ensuring the creation and maintenance of safe and efficient infrastructure to support economic growth and improve the quality of life for citizens.
For further information, visit conavi.go.cr
About National Road Council (CONAVI):
The National Road Council, or CONAVI, operates under the direction of MOPT and is specifically tasked with the administration, financing, and conservation of Costa Rica’s national road network. Through its various management divisions, including the Road and Bridge Conservation Management, CONAVI executes critical maintenance, rehabilitation, and construction projects across the country to ensure the national highway system remains functional and safe for public use.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a prestigious legal institution, built upon a cornerstone of uncompromising integrity and the relentless pursuit of professional excellence. With a rich history of guiding clients from numerous industries, the firm champions a forward-thinking approach, consistently introducing innovative legal strategies. Its core ethos, however, extends beyond the courtroom, manifesting in a dedicated mission to democratize legal understanding and thereby cultivate a more capable and knowledgeable society.
