The Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) announced the implementation of regulated traffic flow on the Bernardo Soto Highway, one of the most vital arteries for travel toward the western region of the country. The works, which officially began on the night of Monday, February 9, aim to fully remark 40 kilometers of roadway to improve road safety and driver visibility.
Schedule and affected areas
To minimize the impact on commuters traveling to work or educational centers, authorities have scheduled the interventions primarily during nighttime hours. The regulated traffic flow will be applied as follows:
Schedule: From 8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
Coverage: From the vicinity of Juan Santamaría International Airport to the San Ramón junction.
Key points: Work crews will also operate in the areas of Manolos, Grecia, Naranjo, and Palmares.
Although most of the work will take place at night, MOPT warned that some signage or brief partial closures may remain during the day. Drivers are therefore urged to proceed with caution and respect reduced speed limits in the affected areas.
Investment in safety
The project involves the application of thermoplastic paint and the installation of reflective road studs (commonly known as “cat’s eyes”) along a stretch that has historically presented visibility issues, particularly during the rainy season or periods of dense fog in areas such as El Coyol and Naranjo.
According to the official schedule, the work is expected to continue until March 9, provided weather conditions allow for steady progress.
Alternate routes and recommendations
Traffic authorities recommend that those traveling to the Pacific coast or the northern region of the country plan ahead, especially if heading to the airport during early morning hours.
Suggested alternate routes for light vehicles include:
- Route 3 (via Monte del Aguacate): For travelers going from San José to Puntarenas.
- Barreal de Heredia route: To avoid initial congestion near the Alajuela free trade zone.
Once the intervention is completed, the Bernardo Soto Highway is expected to feature high-standard road markings, reducing the risk of head-on collisions and roadway departures along this important stretch of Route 1.
