Drivers traveling near  Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in Alajuela Province should expect significant traffic delays this weekend as authorities temporarily close roads to replace a damaged bridge, according to the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT).

The closures are necessary after a tractor-trailer crashed into the bridge, requiring the installation of a new prefabricated portable truss structure, commonly known as a Bailey bridge.

The replacement bridge will measure approximately 16 feet wide and 164 feet long (5 meters by 50 meters). It is located on Route 1, near the airport, along the corridor connecting El Coyol in Alajuela Province with San José Province.

According to the MOPT, the final phase of construction will require a complete closure of the bridge and all surrounding roads, including the roadway beneath the structure, from 9 p.m. Friday, July 3, until 5 a.m. Monday, July 6.

Authorities are urging motorists to avoid the construction zone and use alternate routes when traveling between Alajuela and San José in either direction.

For drivers who must travel through the area, traffic officers will be on site and warning signs have been installed to help manage vehicle flow.

Motorists traveling to or from Juan Santamaría International Airport are advised to allow extra travel time and expect delays throughout the weekend.

Officials said the bridge and all surrounding roads are scheduled to reopen at 5 a.m. Monday, July 6.

The bridge had been under construction since May and was newly installed in June before it was damaged in the tractor-trailer crash.

The MOPT is also continuing work on a new highway overpass along Route 1 in the section connecting the canton of San Ramón, in Alajuela Province, with San José.

MOPT is responsible for overseeing the country’s road, port and airport infrastructure, as well as national public transportation policy.

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Which roads in Costa Rica should be prioritized for improvements?  We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com