New Bailey bridges on Circunvalación collapsing; closed until further notice

September 11^th, 2013 (InsideCostaRica.com) The Bailey bridges that were installed on the Circunvalación a little more than a week ago are structurally compromised and have begun to collapse, forcing authorities to close the bridges until further notice.

According to authorities and engineers, heavy rains compromised the bridges’ foundations.

Authorities were warned of danger

Construction company, H. Solis apparently warned authorities that the foundation on which the bridges are supported was unstable in a letter dated September 4^th.  The letter noted that the bridges’ support should be strengthened “to prevent, among other things, the sliding and eventual collapse of the bridges.”

The letter added, “Given the gravity of the situation, we recommend not opening the bridges to traffic,” until work to strengthen the structures could be completed.

The National Laboratory of Materials and Structural Models also warned about the stability of the bridges, recommending that at least one of them be relocated.

The bridges will remain closed until further notice.