Residents of the Alajuelita canton in San José have a new road connection as of March 18, with the opening of a bridge that allows vehicle traffic between Barrio Juan Pablo II and Barrio La Guaria in San Felipe.
The new bridge spans 45 meters over the La Guaria creek, providing access where none previously existed. The project aims to improve mobility and safety for local residents.
Ana Yancy Panagua, Manager of the PRVC II Executing Unit, said, “This new road connection between the neighborhoods of Juan Pablo II and La Guaria represents an important advance for the mobility and safety of the residents of Alajuelita. With the construction of this bridge, we not only facilitate vehicular and pedestrian traffic but also strengthen local infrastructure with a work designed for the current and future needs of the community, demonstrating the positive impact of joint work between the Government, BID, and Municipality.”
The bridge features two lanes measuring 3.65 meters each and pedestrian sidewalks on both sides that are compliant with Law 7600. The approaches to the structure were also improved. The design is intended to accommodate maximum estimated flows for the next 100 years, and a rock embankment will be built to protect its foundations.
Rosario Siles Fernández, Mayor of Alajuelita, said, “This bridge is much more than concrete and steel; it is the symbol of an Alajuelita that does not stop. For years, Quebrada La Guaria was a barrier that separated our neighbors, but today we turn it into a point of union. With this world-class work, we not only improve transit but dignify the lives of families in Barrio Juan Pablo II and La Guaria, ensuring that progress reaches every corner of the canton with safety and accessibility for all.”
As part of this project, 391 meters of municipal road between Cementerio and San Felipe de Alajuelita were improved with asphalt pavement works, sidewalk construction, and enhanced road safety through horizontal and vertical signage.
The project was developed under the Second Program for Municipal Road Networks (PRVC II) by MOPT-BID in coordination with Alajuelita Municipality. A total investment of $1,683,523.91 from PRVC II MOPT-BID was used for both bridge construction and road improvements. Funding came from an Inter-American Development Bank loan.
