Starting next Monday, January 19, 2026, traffic along National Route 32 —the main connection between the Central Valley and the province of Limón— will be fully suspended for 15 calendar days. The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) confirmed that the measure is necessary to install the structural beams of the new bridge over the Sucio River, a key component in the highway’s expansion.

The closure will be continuous (24 hours a day) and will end on February 2. The affected sector specifically covers the bridge construction area; however, for traffic control purposes, restriction checkpoints will be located at the Zurquí Toll Plaza and the Río Frío Junction, blocking passage through Braulio Carrillo National Park.

Mandatory detour routes:
Authorities have designated the following alternate routes to prevent logistical gridlock:

• Heavy and articulated vehicles: Must use Route 10, which connects San José and Siquirres via Cartago and Turrialba. Officials warn that this detour may add up to two extra hours to usual travel times.

• Light vehicles and small buses: May use the Vara Blanca route (Route 126), although extreme caution is advised due to sharp curves and possible fog.

The National Roadway Council (CONAVI) explained that the use of high-capacity cranes in the riverbed and over the current roadway makes it impossible to maintain safe vehicle flow. “We are entering the most critical phase of the structure; once these beams are installed, the project will move into its final paving stage,” authorities stated.

Export companies and passenger transportation services are urged to adjust their schedules, as no vehicles —including emergency units or private cars— will be allowed to pass through the construction zone during the lifting maneuvers.