10th Ave Makeover Sparks Debate in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen, Mexico — The publication of the “10th Avenue Modernization Project” between Juárez and CTM avenues in Playa del Carmen has sparked controversy on social media. The debate intensified after a video posted on the official Facebook page of Mayor Estefanía Mercado dismissed concerns about tree removal and relocation as “fake news.” However, the project explicitly includes eliminating the central median, home to over 160 trees, and reducing traffic to one-way, among other changes.

A Project at Odds with Environmental Concerns

The municipal government’s slogan, “from all-inclusive to everyone included,” appears to be political propaganda, critics argue, as the administration has not engaged with residents who fear an imminent ecological disaster. The removal of decades-old trees—including flamboyanes, maculís, and palms—would eliminate vital natural assets that regulate temperature, provide shade, and contribute to the city’s historical and environmental heritage.

Traffic Changes Raise Practical Concerns

The project proposes converting the stretch between Constituyentes and CTM avenues into a one-way southbound route, aligning it with the existing traffic flow from Plaza Paraíso to Constituyentes Avenue. The central median would be replaced with a narrower divider to accommodate a bike lane, confining remaining trees to small planters.

Critics highlight a lack of planning for northbound traffic diversion. Currently, 15th North Avenue does not extend from 38th Avenue to Constituyentes, and 25th North Avenue is insufficient. This would force vehicles onto 30th Avenue, already one of the city’s busiest thoroughfares, worsening congestion.

Political Motivations Suspected

Public works should reflect long-term planning and social vision, but in Playa del Carmen, critics allege they serve political ambitions. Mayor Mercado, affiliated with the Morena party, is speculated to be positioning herself for the Quintana Roo gubernatorial race in two years, alongside potential rival Gino Segura.

Citizen Opposition and Alternative Proposal

The environmental group Moce Yax Cuxtal presented an alternative plan to Municipal Public Works Secretary Doris Ake, emphasizing tree conservation and sustainable urban development. Architect Héctor Gangoiti Haro collaborated on the proposal, which includes:

• Preserving the central median and existing trees.
• Expanding green spaces with native species.
• Creating accessible pedestrian walkways and safe bike lanes.
• Implementing biophilic design and climate-resilient infrastructure.

A citizen survey reportedly supports these measures. Small hoteliers, represented by Offner Arjona Vázquez, also expressed concerns about construction disrupting the tourist season.

Government Response and Historical Precedent

Instead of addressing concerns, officials dismissed criticism as misinformation. Residents recall the poorly executed renovation of 5th Avenue under former Mayor Laura Beristain, where substandard materials led to rapid deterioration, forcing costly repairs.

Project Timeline and Unfulfilled Promises

The first phase, covering Juárez to Constituyentes Avenue, is set to begin in approximately one week. Meanwhile, other major projects promised by Mercado—such as the Women’s Hospital, the northern Maya portal, and scenic viewpoints—remain delayed or unrealized.

Critics urge the government to prioritize sustainable, community-backed projects over politically motivated “legacy” initiatives.