10th Ave Makeover Sparks Debate in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — The publication of the “10th Avenue Modernization Project” between Juárez and CTM avenues has ignited a wave of public opposition. A video posted to Mayor Estefanía Mercado’s official Facebook page attempted to dismiss concerns about tree removal as “fake news,” even though the official plan calls for the elimination of the central median and the removal or relocation of over 160 mature trees—many decades old—including flamboyanes, maculís, and palms.

On Wednesday, protestors chained themselves to trees along 10th Avenue and held signs that read, “These trees are not fake news,” in response to the mayor’s comments.

A Project at Odds with Environmental Concerns

The government’s slogan for the project—“from all-inclusive to everyone included”—has been labeled political propaganda by critics who say that the plan lacks community input and risks an environmental and social disaster. The trees slated for removal provide vital shade, cool the urban environment, and are part of Playa del Carmen’s cultural and ecological identity.

The project also reduces the avenue to one-way traffic southbound, removes the median, and introduces a bike lane and smaller planters for select trees. Critics argue this compromises the ecological balance and the usability of the road.

Residents and urban planners say the proposed traffic changes are poorly thought out. The plan does not account for rerouting northbound traffic, and 15th Avenue—currently incomplete between 38th and Constituyentes—cannot absorb the load. 25th Avenue is too narrow, and 30th Avenue is already overburdened. Without alternatives, traffic congestion is expected to worsen significantly.

Political Motivations Suspected

Observers suggest the project may be driven more by political ambition than long-term planning. Mayor Mercado, affiliated with the Morena party, is rumored to be considering a gubernatorial run in 2027. Critics allege that the project is a “legacy” move designed to generate publicity rather than serve the community. Morena Senator Gino Segura is also rumored to be eyeing the position.

Environmental group Moce Yax Cuxtal, together with architect Héctor Gangoiti Haro, presented an alternative proposal to Public Works Secretary Doris Ake. Their plan focuses on:

• Preserving the existing central median and mature trees
• Expanding green areas with native vegetation
• Creating safe, accessible pedestrian walkways and dedicated bike lanes
• Integrating bioclimatic and climate-resilient design elements

The plan is reportedly backed by a citizen survey and has the support of small business owners and hoteliers. Offner Arjona Vázquez, representing local hotels, voiced concerns that the construction could damage the tourist season and strain already struggling businesses.

History Repeats Itself?

Residents fear a repeat of the 5th Avenue renovation debacle under former mayor Laura Beristain, when poor-quality materials and lack of oversight resulted in rapid deterioration. That project became a political liability—and a financial burden—for the city.

Despite promises of grand public works, including a new Women’s Hospital, Maya gateway portal, and miradores (scenic viewpoints), many of Mercado’s projects remain unfinished or shelved. Construction on the first phase of the 10th Avenue project, from Juárez to Constituyentes, is scheduled to begin within a week.