The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) and the National Roadway Council (CONAVI) have officially begun rehabilitation work on the Tárcoles Bridge, located on National Route 34 – the Costanera Sur.
The bridge is about one hour west of San José, along the route leading to popular Pacific destinations such as Jacó, Herradura, Quepos, and Manuel Antonio. For many travelers, it’s an unavoidable crossing on the way to the Central and South Pacific beaches.
Famous among visitors, the bridge provides a direct view of the Tárcoles River, home to one of the largest populations of American crocodiles in the world, often visible from the road.
🗣️ “Sure, it might mean a bit more time on the road, but I’d much rather have a safe and solid bridge than take any risks. People don’t come to Costa Rica just for fast highways, we come for its beaches, nature, and wildlife. The Tárcoles Bridge is iconic – you almost always cross it on your way to Jacó or Manuel Antonio – and knowing it was in bad shape was concerning. So even if it adds a little extra time to the drive, I think this project is the right move.”
— Michael Anderson, Seattle, USA
The project, scheduled to last 310 days, is valued at $6.7 million and will directly benefit more than 32,000 users. Work will be carried out in four stages: reinforcement of the bridge abutments, strengthening of the supporting piers, soil stabilization and erosion protection, and rehabilitation of the superstructure with complementary works.
To reduce disruptions, authorities have announced a plan of alternating traffic and temporary closures. From August to November 2025, traffic will be reduced to one lane 24/7. Between November 2025 and March 2026, the bridge will reopen to two lanes (one in each direction) to accommodate the high tourist season. From March to June 2026, alternating one-lane traffic will return as the heaviest phase of the work continues.
Starting in September, full nighttime closures may be scheduled, limited to 3–4 per month between 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., always announced in advance.
✅ Practical Tips for Travelers
- Plan extra travel time if you are heading toward Jacó, Manuel Antonio, or the South Pacific coast.
- Stay updated on closure schedules to avoid delays, especially at night.
- Cross on foot only if necessary: the bridge will remain open to pedestrians, but stopping to watch crocodiles is strictly prohibited.
- Be mindful of peak season: between November and March, the bridge will reopen to two lanes, but congestion is still possible.
- Patience is key: this project is vital to ensure safety and preserve the Costanera Sur, a lifeline that connects the Pacific coast with the rest of the country.
Authorities also stress that while the bridge will remain open for pedestrian crossing, crocodile viewing will be suspended during the rehabilitation to ensure safety for workers and visitors alike.
The MOPT has been coordinating with municipalities, chambers of commerce, and local groups to keep communities from Parrita, Quepos, Garabito, and the southern zone well-informed.
The American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus), commonly seen in the Tárcoles River, is one of the largest reptiles in the Americas. Some males can reach up to 5 meters in length and weigh over 400 kilos. Despite their fearsome appearance, they play a vital role in the ecosystem by regulating fish populations and maintaining balance in aquatic life.
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