Construction of the La Pavona Tourist and Neighborhood Pier moves forward on the banks of the La Suerte River in Cariari. The project supports river transportation to Tortuguero. The project manager and engineering team report 20 percent completion. They plan to deliver the first phase by the end of May.
William Rodríguez, Minister of Tourism, said the pier addresses an urgent need. “The construction of the La Pavona pier is an urgent necessity, both to enhance the experience of tourists visiting the magical destination of Tortuguero and to benefit business owners and residents who rely on waterways for transportation,” he said.
The estimated investment for all phases totals 1.2 billion colones, or about $2.54 million. The Municipality of Pococí, the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation, and SINAC take part in the work. JAPDEVA provides funding for the first phase. The Costa Rican Tourism Institute, known as ICT, supports the second phase.
Boat operations continue without interruption in the high season. Dozens of tourists board boats each day for Tortuguero. The area ranks as the third most visited conservation area in Costa Rica and serves as a sanctuary for green turtle nesting. Gabriel Robles, the project engineer, described the dock layout. “The La Pavona neighborhood dock consists of two sections: a loading and unloading ramp connected to the pier, and an exclusive rest and waiting area for tourists,” he said.
Teams now build the ramp for merchandise loading and unloading. They install piles to anchor the first floating dock for passengers. They also receive and position materials for this stage. The second phase adds a second floating dock in the second half of the year. Robles said weather conditions create the main challenge. “It’s an area with heavy rainfall, which causes the river to rise, but we’re making good progress,” he said.
Brandon Agüero Maroto, project manager and spokesperson for the Municipality of Pococí, said the pier will change conditions on the ground. Travelers will no longer wade through mud. Boarding boats becomes easier. Loading and unloading of materials, food, and merchandise improves.
Agüero added that the pier strengthens the cantonal brand “Pococí Fluye.” The project holds tourist, economic, cultural, and sporting importance that reinforces the areas identity.
