Riviera Maya Architects’ New President Seeks Bigger Role in Playa del Carmen Planning

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Grecia Gallegos Arévalo, the incoming president of the Riviera Maya Architects’ College (Colegio de Arquitectos de la Riviera Maya), wants architects brought into municipal projects and new mechanisms created to analyze how Playa del Carmen is growing.

Gallegos Arévalo, who will lead the organization for the 2027-2028 term, said her agenda includes an urban observatory, an urban laboratory and written records that document how the city has evolved over time. She also proposed creating a directory of members listing their areas of specialty, making it easier for architects to find one another and collaborate.

Talks Under Way With City Officials

She said the college has already held conversations with municipal authorities to explore ways of involving the profession in projects that benefit the community, while also continuing work begun by previous boards.

The proposals aim to tighten coordination among architects, residents and government at a time when the city is expanding and, in her view, needs comprehensive planning proposals.

Internally, she pledged a transparent administration, a willingness to listen to members and a stronger sense of unity within the organization.

Election Result Defended

Responding to suggestions of possible irregularities in the vote, Gallegos Arévalo denied the process was rigged and said the college’s bylaws were followed, along with the deadlines set for registering slates and campaigning.

Two slates, Vértice and Proyecta, took part. Of the 55 members entitled to vote, she won 31 ballots — a margin of seven votes over her rival, she said.

On the state of the profession in Playa del Carmen, she acknowledged that work in the sector has slowed and said closer collaboration among colleagues is needed. The arrival of new architects and other professionals has also increased competition in the local market, she added.