San José Launches ₡9.6 Billion Urban Renewal Drive for Parks and Plazas

San José launches a major ₡9.6 billion urban renewal project to upgrade Parque Central, Plaza de las Garantías Sociales, and over 21km of pedestrian walkways.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 28, 2026, 10:35 AM EDT

Source: The Tico Times

Financial Allocation and Mobility Infrastructure

Of the total budget allocated for 2026, the municipality has earmarked ₡5.034 billion specifically for park renovations and ₡4.6 billion for an extensive sidewalk overhaul. The mobility component of the project is particularly ambitious, involving the construction of more than 21 kilometers of new walkways. These paths will feature integrated urban furniture, new tree plantings, and modern accessibility features to ensure the city is navigable for all residents. By addressing the physical state of the sidewalks, officials aim to transform the daily commute for thousands of pedestrians who traverse the city center.

Modernizing the Historic Heart of Parque Central

Parque Central is the first of the major projects to enter the public procurement system, with a dedicated budget of ₡648 million. The renovation plan respects the site's historic architectural heritage while introducing contemporary amenities. Key upgrades include expanded green spaces, an automated irrigation system, and a sensory garden. Notably, the project will repurpose the basement of the historic bandstand into a new café, alongside the installation of pergolas and improved lighting to deter crime. The initiative has already received the necessary public interest declarations and heritage office approvals to proceed.

Large Scale Investments in Social and Athletic Spaces

The revitalization extends to Plaza de las Garantías Sociales and Plaza González Víquez, representing a combined investment of over ₡3.2 billion. The former, located near the Social Security (CCSS) headquarters, is entering early contracting with a ₡1.015 billion plan to create a cooler, more environmentally friendly urban environment. Meanwhile, Plaza González Víquez is slated for a ₡2.2 billion transformation that includes a new gym area, a synthetic football field, and refurbished outdoor courts. However, work on Plaza Víquez remains contingent on final design approval from the Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos (CFIA).