Work to place permanent bridges over the the river María Aguilar| JORGE ARCE
There is no alternate route for the 81,000 vehicles that travel daily on the Circunvalación (Beltway or Bypass), which became substantially backed up after work started on Monday to replace a bridge near Hatillo 8. The sectors most affected by congestion are on Route 27, close to La Sabana, Barrio Cuba and the radial section of Alajuelita. This situation is expected to continue for 15 days, while the National Roads Authority (Conavi) replaces four temporary bridges, with permanent concrete structures over the river Maria Aguilar.
Three lanes (one reversible) are in effect this week, and next week it will be reduced to just two. The full four lanes will not re-open until work is completed in March. According to transit officials, there is no alternative route that is free of congestion. So, motorists are encouraged to use public transportation and arm themselves with patience.