What Happened
Repair works on several cobblestone streets in the Casco Antiguo, San Felipe corregimiento, are underway ahead of Semana Santa, when the historic district draws religious tourism. Neighbourhood leaders, however, say the pace and quality of the interventions are inadequate for a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Local Concerns
Iva Mei-Yin Du, president of the Asociación de Vecinos y Comerciantes del Casco Antiguo (Avaca), described serious deterioration on multiple streets that is affecting residents, businesses and visitors. Du highlighted particularly problematic points at the intersection of Calle Novena with Avenida Central and the crossing with Avenida B, where poor road conditions create congestion and mobility difficulties.
Avaca reports that many previously repaired sections show persistent problems: uneven surfaces, unstable tracts, exposed metal pieces and drainage issues. Du warned these conditions pose risks for pedestrians — especially people with disabilities — and tourists, citing falls and difficulties for wheelchair users. She also suggested underlying structural issues, such as damaged underground pipes, may be contributing to recurring damage and require deeper technical study.
Works, Interruptions and Recent Repairs
The Ministry of Public Works (MOP) and the San Felipe Junta Comunal began some repair actions in October of last year, but Avaca has criticized the slow pace and the suspension of work on weekends despite the urgency. Last week MOP and the Instituto de Acueductos y Alcantarillados Nacionales (Idaan) carried out repairs on Calle Novena and Calle Boquete to address worn cobblestones and a broken water pipe that had been affecting mobility.
Avaca stresses the need for comprehensive intervention rather than isolated or temporary fixes. As Du put it: “La comunidad ha estado esperando estas intervenciones. Es positivo ver que los trabajos ya han iniciado; sin embargo, ahora lo importante es que estos trabajos se ejecuten con el rigor técnico y el respeto que merece un sitio patrimonial como el Casco Antiguo.”
Impact on Businesses and Tourism
Between 100 and 200 businesses operate in the area, including restaurants, hotels and shops, and Avaca says these establishments are directly affected by the poor street conditions and constant traffic. Du said: “Se promueve el turismo, pero no se invierte lo suficiente en la infraestructura,” calling for better investment and planning.
Response from Authorities and What This Means
The MOP has said the intervention aims to restore road safety and improve the urban experience in a key area of the capital that receives a steady flow of tourists and residents. Avaca is urging coordinated, inter-institutional efforts and technical studies to ensure durable solutions rather than temporary repairs, emphasizing that quality and planning are necessary to protect a heritage site and maintain accessibility during busy seasons like Semana Santa.