A new bridge project near Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), in Alajuela Province, could cause traffic congestion in the area, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT).

The ministry said construction began Monday on Route 1, along the section connecting El Coyol Canton in Alajuela to San José near the airport.

MOPT crews are installing a portable prefabricated truss structure, commonly known as a Bailey bridge. The bridge will measure approximately 16 feet wide and 164 feet long (5 meters by 50 meters).

Officials said the project will allow the current route from Coyol to San José to expand to two lanes.

Traffic traveling in the opposite direction, from San José to Alajuela, will continue operating normally and is not expected to be affected by the project.

Construction in the area is expected to continue for at least one month, with the bridge scheduled to open in June.

The bridge is part of a broader series of road improvement initiatives being carried out by MOPT. Recently, authorities also warned drivers that toll booths near Juan Santamaría International Airport are being demolished. Officials said overnight traffic from San José to Alajuela has been temporarily suspended, particularly affecting travelers heading to the airport.

MOPT oversees Costa Rica’s roads, ports, airports and public transportation systems.

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