Mexican Military Oversees El Meco Site for Maya Train Work

Cancún, Mexico — The Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena) has formally assumed control of the “El Meco” archaeological zone to conduct complementary infrastructure work for the Maya Train project. The military’s Engineering Unit “Felipe Ángeles” submitted an Environmental Impact Statement (MIA) to the General Directorate of Environmental Impact and Risk (Dgira) outlining plans for the site’s development.

Project Scope and Location

The 20,533-square-meter (2.0533-hectare) archaeological zone, administered by Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), is located in Benito Juárez municipality near the border with Isla Mujeres. The site is bordered to the north by the “Eco Cabañas & Camping Cancún” trailer park and private property, to the east by the Caribbean Sea, to the west by Bonampak Avenue, and to the south by conservation land and a private event venue. The Punta Sam highway vertically bisects the property.

Construction Details

Registered under project code 23QR2024T0096, the initiative involves:

• Construction, operation, and maintenance of facilities for archaeological research, administration, and visitor services
• Development of 4,978.654 m² of infrastructure across two subdivided lots
• A total investment of 101,789,150.33 pesos (20% allocated for environmental mitigation)
• Estimated 9-month construction timeline, with a 30-year operational lifespan

Environmental and Regulatory Considerations

The project adheres to Benito Juárez’s Territorial Planning framework, falling within Environmental Management Unit 21 (“Cancún Urban Zone”). Officials emphasize that despite proximity to coastal areas, the modernization will not affect sea turtle nesting grounds. A perimeter fence will restrict beach access to prevent ecological disruption during nesting seasons.

Infrastructure upgrades include trail resurfacing, sidewalk installation, and replacement of septic systems with biodigesters for wastewater management.