Playa del Carmen, Q.R. — Mayor Estefanía Mercado says the circulation of news of the city’s intention to cut down trees for a renovation project are false. Mercado denied rumors on social media that Playa del Carmen will lose 160 trees along 10th Avenue.
The disinformation began circulating with the recent announcement of renovations to the city’s busy 10th Avenue. Mercado says the circulating information is “false news”, adding that tress will be added to the avenue during the project, not removed.
“Tenth Avenue will have more trees, not fewer. Don’t fall for the fake news. This administration respects the environment and acts responsibly. We are committed to an urban transformation that cares for our environment, strengthens the social fabric and improves the quality of life for everyone,” Mercado explained in a video Monday.
Mercado categorically denied any intention to remove or relocate trees as part of the urban improvement project that is set to begin today. The avenue revamp includes not only the maintenance and improvement of pedestrian and road infrastructure, but also a significant increase in the number of trees with species suited to the region’s climate and soil, which will allow for greater shade, a better urban image, and sustainable environmental benefits, she explained.
Mercado reiterated the importance of staying properly informed to avoid misinformation. On Monday, a small group of PDC residents took to 10th Avenue in protest of the 160 trees they believed were to be cut down.
“Our commitment is to the prosperity of the entire community, and that prosperity is also built on dignified, green and humane public spaces. We don’t cut down trees here, we plant them,” Mercado clarified.
On July 8, PDC officials toured the city’s central Fifth Avenue for a function and safety inspection. Estefanía Mercado was accompanied by the heads of the main operational areas of her government.
The inspection began at the intersection of Constituyentes Avenue and ended at the Fundadores Park area, covering one of the city’s busiest tourist areas. During the tour, authorities reviewed the condition of street furniture, lighting, signage and manhole covers for companies such as the Federal Electricity Commission, many of which are deteriorated or open.
“The state of Fifth Avenue must reflect the level of city we aspire to be: modern, safe, inclusive and on par with major international destinations. We cannot allow this vital artery for tourism and the identity of Playa del Carmen to remain in conditions that undermine its functionality and prestige,” said Estefanía Mercado.
After the tour, Mercado also announced a comprehensive rehabilitation and urban planning project for Fifth Avenue, which will include infrastructure improvements, universal accessibility, aesthetics, public services, street-level retail redesign and sustainable criteria.
