The Banco de Costa Rica (BCR) is overseeing the construction of the new Tribunales de Justicia in Quepos, as part of the Fideicomiso Poder Judicial 2015. This project aims to centralize judicial services in a single location with improved facilities.
According to BCR, the project had reached 35% completion by August 31, 2025. The initial phases, including basic studies, preliminary work, draft plans, technical specifications, and detailed budgeting have been completed. The next step is preparing for phase two of the construction tender. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2027 and be delivered to the Poder Judicial in the first months of 2028.
The new building will cover a total area of 18,822 square meters, including exterior areas such as sidewalks, parking lots, security booths, and green spaces. The main structure itself will occupy 13,469 square meters and will be located in Barrio la Inmaculada in Quepos.
It will house various judicial offices serving Aguirre and Parrita—including criminal courts, family courts, public defense offices—and also accommodate regional branches of the OIJ (Judicial Investigation Agency), social work and psychology departments. Bringing these offices together is expected to improve service delivery for users and enhance working conditions for staff. Additionally, consolidating operations into one facility will save over ¢250 million annually on rental contracts.
The building is designed with sustainability in mind. It will comply with accessibility standards set by Law 7600 and meet requirements from fire safety codes and transportation authorities. Sustainable features include low-impact construction techniques, LED lighting systems, water reuse through an onsite treatment plant for irrigation purposes, solar panels on the roof, efficient sanitary systems, waste separation for recycling purposes and reuse of construction materials.
Efforts are being made so that the building can achieve LEED DC+B certification (LEED Building Design and Construction) as well as earn recognition under Costa Rica’s Bandera Azul program for sustainable construction practices.
Local labor and materials will be prioritized during construction to benefit the regional economy. According to BCR: “For Banco de Costa Rica it is a source of pride to lead this much-anticipated and necessary building so that the Poder Judicial can continue its important mission in defense of democracy and social peace. With this type of project BCR continues promoting socioeconomic development and sustainability in Costa Rica—ensuring not only financial utility but also environmental and social value from its actions.”
