Finally, some long-awaited good news on infrastructure! The government has confirmed that Route 32, the main artery connecting San Jose to Limón, will be ready by March 2025. The project, which involves expanding the road to four lanes over 107 kilometers, has been plagued by delays and bureaucracy for over a decade. But now, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Let’s dig into the details, shall we?
A Decade in the Making
The Route 32 expansion project has been in the works for over ten years. Back in 2013, Costa Rica and China signed an agreement to extend the road between Río Frío and Limón. Since then, the project has seen three different administrations, countless bureaucratic hurdles, and numerous delays. The cost has ballooned to an estimated $552 million. Yet, here we are, finally seeing progress.
No Overpasses, Just Roundabouts
Mauricio Batalla, Minister of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT), confirmed that the government had to discard plans for constructing overpasses due to their higher cost and the greater number of expropriations required. Instead, they’ve decided to build roundabouts, which will allow the proposed inauguration goal to be met. While some might see this as a compromise, it’s a necessary step to ensure the road is completed on time.
Commitment to Improvement
“This administration is committed to continuing to improve road infrastructure beyond this project, allowing turns and returns without interrupting main traffic and solving historical infrastructure problems in Limón,” Batalla stated. The current focus is on the Río Frío to Limón section, being carried out by the Chinese company CHEC.
Safe and Functional
“What we all want is a road that is not only functional but also safe. We are working efficiently and transparently to be able to finish between March and April 2025 so that the people of Limón can have the road they have longed for for so many years,” Batalla added. This is music to the ears of the long-suffering residents of Limón, who have been waiting for years for this vital infrastructure.
Complementary Works Needed
While the main project is moving forward, Batalla acknowledged the need for complementary works such as sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and overpasses. However, by mandate of the Comptroller’s Office, it is not possible to carry out more works to improve the mobility of the communities within this project. It’s a step in the right direction, but there’s still more to be done to ensure the safety and convenience of all road users.
Local Support and Skepticism
Anna Matarrita, mayor of Limón, expressed cautious optimism: “The Route 32 project has been one of the projects with the most difficulties over time, but also with the most opportunities for improvement. We know that there is little time to execute the works, but we are grateful for the good intentions of the government.”
Looking Ahead
The Route 32 expansion is a significant milestone for Costa Rica’s infrastructure. It promises to improve connectivity, boost the local economy, and enhance the quality of life for residents. But this project should serve as a reminder of the importance of efficient governance and the need to cut through bureaucratic red tape to deliver results.
As we move towards the March 2025 completion date, let’s keep a close eye on the progress and hold our government accountable for delivering on their promises. After all, it’s not just about building roads; it’s about building a better future for all Costa Ricans.
