Playa del Carmen Mayor Expects Improved Anti-Sargassum Strategy in 2027

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Mayor Estefanía Mercado said Saturday that an upcoming federal comprehensive anti-sargassum plan will bring “big news” to Playa del Carmen and likely lead to a better strategy for tackling the seaweed in 2027.

Interviewed during a local event, Mercado credited Governor Mara Lezama for her persistent efforts in securing federal support. “We expect big news, important efforts by our governor Mara Lezama who has been constantly knocking on doors in Mexico City,” Mercado said. “The president of the republic made a visit, she took a helicopter tour to see all our coasts, and I believe she has a clear understanding of the most affected areas.”

The comprehensive sargassum plan was announced on July 17 by President Claudia Sheinbaum during her morning press conference in Tulum. According to Sheinbaum, the strategy centers on acquiring more sargassum-collecting ships and barriers to boost offshore capture of the macroalgae. However, a subsequent press conference scheduled two days later in Puerto Morelos was canceled after Sheinbaum adjusted her itinerary to attend the FIFA World Cup final.

Public Works and Urban Revitalization

Mercado also outlined ongoing urban transformation projects across the municipality, calling them a historic investment in public works. She said crews are repaving major avenues, rehabilitating health centers, parks, sports facilities, and social infrastructure, as well as maintaining absorption wells, sidewalks, and pedestrian crossings in various neighborhoods.

The mayor noted that she is working closely with the federal government on several projects and will soon announce details to the public. She specifically mentioned that on Monday she will unveil a new project to revitalize downtown Playa del Carmen aimed at beautifying the city and surrounding areas.

Additionally, Mercado said she recently held a dialogue with local business owners who raised concerns about a slowdown in economic activity. “It’s very important to open this permanent channel of dialogue with them, to have a one-stop shop for entrepreneurs where we can provide support and simplify procedures,” she said. “That was a topic raised at the table, and it’s a project we will work on together.”