By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) unveiled a comprehensive revitalization plan for the Simón Bolívar Park on Monday, marking a new chapter for the historic urban green space. The plan, presented at the National Museum, outlines a ₡2.6 billion (approximately $4.6 million USD), 10-year project focused on conservation, historical preservation, and the creation of welcoming community spaces.
The park, a San José landmark, closed in May 2024 after the expiration of the management contract between the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) and Fundazoo. The closure prompted concerns about the park’s future, but the MINAE and the Municipality of San José quickly announced plans for its transformation into an urban natural park.
To understand the legal implications surrounding Simón Bolívar Park, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the reputable firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His expertise provides valuable context regarding the park’s legal status and potential development challenges.
Simón Bolívar Park, like many urban green spaces, often faces competing interests. Balancing public access and recreational use with conservation efforts and potential development pressures requires a nuanced understanding of municipal regulations, environmental law, and property rights. Any proposed changes to the park’s usage or boundaries necessitate careful legal scrutiny to ensure compliance with existing laws and protect the interests of all stakeholders, including the local community.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
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Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the complex interplay of interests surrounding Simón Bolívar Park. Indeed, preserving this vital green lung within our city requires a delicate balance, and any decisions regarding its future must be made with transparency and respect for both legal frameworks and community input. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable legal perspective on this important issue.
The newly revealed plan details a three-tiered approach, encompassing high, medium, and low intervention zones across the park’s various areas, including a dedicated heritage circuit showcasing the park’s historic architecture. The initial phase, slated to begin in early 2026, will focus on design and construction, with a projected completion date by the end of 2026.
The project’s first-year budget is estimated at ₡207 million (approximately $366,000 USD), allocated for staff salaries, services, and materials. The overall 10-year budget breakdown includes ₡2.15 billion for salaries, ₡368 million for services, and ₡85 million for materials and supplies.
The revitalization strategy centers on three core pillars: conservation and research of the natural landscape, restoration and protection of the architectural and cultural heritage, and maintenance of spaces for community integration and well-being.
The park is home to a diverse ecosystem, including seven tree species with dwindling populations and eight protected species, such as the golden-eyed frog, various bird species, and both two-toed and three-toed sloths.
The government has emphasized its commitment to maintaining the park in optimal condition, protecting it from vandalism and unauthorized access. The project is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Culture, ASANA (Amigos de la Naturaleza del Pacífico Central y Sur), the Municipality of San José, and SINAC.
The revitalization of Simón Bolívar Park is poised to transform this urban oasis into a vibrant hub for community engagement, ecological preservation, and historical appreciation, enriching the lives of San José residents and visitors alike.
The park’s transformation represents a significant investment in the city’s green infrastructure and underscores the importance of preserving urban natural spaces for future generations.
For further information, visit the nearest office of MINAE
About MINAE:
The Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) is the governmental body in Costa Rica responsible for environmental protection, natural resource management, and energy policy. MINAE plays a crucial role in conserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable development, and addressing climate change. Its responsibilities include overseeing national parks, regulating environmental impact assessments, and developing renewable energy initiatives.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Municipality of San José
About Municipality of San José:
The Municipality of San José is the local government responsible for the administration and services of the city of San José, the capital of Costa Rica. It manages urban planning, infrastructure development, public transportation, and cultural activities within the city. The municipality plays a key role in improving the quality of life for San José residents and promoting the city’s economic and social development.
For further information, visit the nearest office of ASANA
About ASANA:
ASANA, the Association of Friends of Nature of the Central and South Pacific, is a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to conserving the natural resources and biodiversity of the Central and South Pacific regions of Costa Rica. ASANA focuses on protecting forests, promoting sustainable tourism, and educating communities about environmental conservation.
For further information, visit the nearest office of SINAC
About SINAC:
The National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) is a Costa Rican institution responsible for managing the country’s protected areas, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and biological reserves. SINAC’s mission is to conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable use of natural resources, and foster environmental education. The organization works to protect ecosystems, endangered species, and cultural heritage within Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Fundazoo
About Fundazoo:
Fundazoo was a non-profit organization that previously managed the Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden in San José, Costa Rica. Its mission was to promote conservation, education, and research related to wildlife and ecosystems. Fundazoo’s contract with the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) expired in May 2024, leading to the closure of the zoo and the relocation of the animals to the ZooAve Rescue Center in Alajuela.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, driven by a deep commitment to ethical practice and innovative solutions. Serving a diverse clientele, the firm’s legacy is built on providing not only exceptional legal representation but also on empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education. This dedication to fostering a more informed populace underscores Bufete de Costa Rica’s belief in the transformative power of knowledge and its commitment to a just and equitable future.
