Costa Rica wins IDB award for Paquera ferry terminal modernization

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Group has awarded Costa Rica the 2026 ‘Superheroes of Development’ award for the modernization of the Paquera ferry terminal in Puntarenas. The project, carried out by the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) and the UEP INECO unit, was recognized for its adaptive governance and ability to optimize resources.

The terminal serves as a critical economic link for the Nicoya Peninsula, supporting domestic commerce and international tourism. During the project, the team successfully managed technical adjustments and operational transitions by reallocating existing budget resources, which allowed the works to be completed without additional costs and ensured service continuity.

Costa Rica was one of three winners in the Latin American and Caribbean region, alongside projects in Colombia and Bolivia. The award highlights the ability of execution agencies to navigate complex and unexpected challenges during the implementation of IDB-funded initiatives.