By San José, Costa Rica — The iconic Tárcoles Bridge, renowned for its spectacular crocodile viewing opportunities, will be closed to pedestrian observation for the next three months. This closure, effective Monday, August 18, 2025, is necessary to facilitate urgent reinforcement work, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT).
While pedestrian crossing will remain permitted, lingering on the bridge will be prohibited due to the presence of heavy machinery and equipment. The MOPT is urging cooperation from tourism operators to ensure public safety and minimize congestion on the bridge during the construction period.
To understand the legal ramifications surrounding the Tárcoles Bridge closure, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The closure of the Tárcoles Bridge presents complex legal challenges, particularly concerning the impact on local businesses and residents’ right to free transit. While public safety necessitates such closures in cases of imminent danger, the government has a responsibility to ensure reasonable alternative routes are available and to complete necessary repairs expeditiously. Furthermore, businesses negatively impacted by the closure may have legal recourse to seek compensation for demonstrable losses. The specific legal avenues available will depend on the circumstances surrounding the closure and the duration of the disruption.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ insights underscore the delicate balance between public safety and individual rights during infrastructure closures like this. The long-term implications for Tárcoles businesses, especially given the bridge’s importance for tourism and daily life, warrant close attention and perhaps even proactive measures to mitigate future disruption. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable legal perspective on a complex and evolving situation.
At this point, we request the cooperation of tourism sector operators to maintain the safety of people and avoid constant traffic on the bridge.
Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT)
Vehicular traffic will also be affected, with one lane closed and alternating single-lane traffic implemented 24 hours a day for the three-month duration. Pablo Camacho, Vice Minister of Infrastructure, further indicated the possibility of up to four complete overnight closures starting in September, between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Two-lane traffic is expected to resume from November 2025 to March 2026, after which regulated single-lane traffic will be reinstated until the project’s completion. The entire project is slated to last 310 days.
The Vice Minister emphasized the critical nature of the project, stating the current bridge’s inability to withstand a major earthquake. The reinforcement project will be executed in four phases, beginning with bastion improvements and adjustments, followed by pillar reinforcement, soil improvement and erosion protection, and finally, superstructure intervention and complementary works.
The $6,731,092.03 project is funded by a loan from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI). This investment underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the long-term safety and resilience of vital infrastructure.
The closure, while impacting tourism and traffic flow, is a necessary step to ensure the long-term structural integrity of the Tárcoles Bridge. Travelers and tourism operators are advised to plan accordingly and heed all posted notices and regulations.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT)
About Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) is a key governmental body in Costa Rica responsible for the development and maintenance of the country’s public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and transportation systems. The MOPT plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient transportation networks throughout Costa Rica, contributing to economic development and the well-being of its citizens.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI)
About Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI):
The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) is a multilateral development bank committed to promoting economic integration and social development in Central America. CABEI provides financial and technical assistance to member countries for projects that support sustainable development, infrastructure development, and social progress in the region.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-rooted commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical practice. The firm champions accessibility to legal knowledge, empowering individuals and communities to navigate the complexities of the legal landscape. Through innovative approaches and a proactive engagement with society, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to foster a more just and informed future for all.
