He approach to the “road redesign” of Paseo de Montejo it is nothing more than a euphemism for eliminating bike lanes of this avenue, although it is said otherwise, he stated Everardo Flores Gomezdirector of the civil association Cicloturixes.
“Those in charge of this process are the Paseo de Montejo Foundationwho were the main opponents to the construction of the cycle path in 2021,” he added.
The leader pointed out that the proposal already generated controversy and annoyance among cyclists and pedestriansdue to the possible impact it would have on existing cycling infrastructure. For this reason, he expressed his concern and opposition to what he considers an attempt to remove bicycle lanes under the guise of an urban redesign.
As the newspaper reported last Thursday, Jorge Carrillo Sáenzpresident of the Tourism Business Council (And so on) and the Paseo de Montejo Foundation, presented three proposals in a meeting with the Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena to redesign the road:
- a) Remove the flower beds with planters from both road bodies.
- b) Reactivate the State Road Council.
- c) Develop a comprehensive project so that the Paseo de Montejo regains its prestige and is considered “the Yucatecan Elysian field.”
Flores Gómez defended the permanence of the planters or pedestrian shelters, considering that they fulfill an essential function.
“These spaces not only provide safety to pedestrians and allow them to cross with less haste, but they also protect the bike lane by preventing motorists from invading it or parking on it,” explained the leader.
He also said that, instead of eliminating the current infrastructure, technical improvements should be made.
“Corrections can be made in some narrow sections and the bike lane can be expanded to include tricycles, but always preserving these spaces,” he commented.
The activist also asked that the process be opened to public consultation.
“Any rehabilitation of the Montejo Walk —whether cultural, commercial or social— must consider the opinion of all users, not just a few hotel owners,” he stressed.
Likewise, he called for respecting current regulations.
“These modifications contravene the NOM 004 of Sedatu 2023which requires considering all modes of mobility—pedestrians, cyclists, public transportation and private vehicles. Removing pedestrian shelters would also go against the General Law of Mobility and Road Safety”, he warned.
Flores Gómez said any attempt to eliminate existing infrastructure would be a significant setback.
“He Montejo Walk was recognized as one of the 11 best arteries designed from Mexicounder the concept of complete streets, designed for everyone. Removing the planters would mean returning to the past, when parked cars hindered circulation,” he noted.
Finally, he reaffirmed Cicloturixes’ commitment to defending cycling and pedestrian infrastructure in Mérida and promoting an inclusive approach in the design and redesign of public spaces.
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