'We are extremely satisfied with this report, which gives us the green light for continuing with the feasibility stage for a project that has been so long awaited in the last decade and that will bring development to the province of Limón,' said Andrea Centeno, CEO of the Port Administration and Economic Development Board for the Atlantic Coast (JAPDEVA).
Moffatt & Nichol study
The study by Moffatt & Nichol found it viable to continue to the feasibility stage. A market feasibility study will now go ahead followed by technical, risk, administrative and legal studies. Findings from all of these are expected to be ready in the first quarter of 2023.
Phased development recommended
Moffatt & Nichol found potential for raising the service level in the port through improved infrastructure to handle more ship arrivals and provide a wider range of services. Development of a cruise ship terminal and marina should be organized in phases over the years.
The study also identified the types of users that would be interested in using the marina and experiencing the tourist attractions in the Caribbean area. Tourism services would need to be strengthened to support development.
Environmental impact
The preliminary assessment anticipated the project will be environmentally viable. Subsequently, the National Environmental Technical Secretariat (SETENA) granted it potential environmental viability and established the terms of reference for an environmental impact study, also to be carried out by Moffatt & Nichol.
In other prefeasibility findings, sportfishing on the Caribbean coast is limited due to the remoteness of the fishing zone and a lack of awareness. JAPDEVA proposes to work with public institutions that promote these activities and organize events to involve the marina.
Costa Rica's good image
Furthermore, the study noted Costa Rica is perceived as a natural paradise. Its good name as an international tourism destination is an advantage that makes further development worth pursuing. Limón was found to meet many of the requirements for becoming a major tourist attraction.
JAPDEVA was advised to work with influential tourism groups in the Caribbean, from Cahuita to Manzanillo, to strengthen business and tourism activities.
Linkage between the city and the port
Site planning and uses should be organized as an extension connecting the city of Limón with the project area, spaces that historically have been segregated due to the need for port security. A continuous circuit should be created of open spaces, green zones, plazas and other elements linked to the city’s existing characteristics and the new development.
The project for a new cruise terminal and marina was one of the core concepts in the Port Master Plan of 2008. Costa Rica President Carlos Alvarado Quesada's administration has been promoting this together with JAPDEVA as a key trigger for Limón’s tourism development.
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