Residents in Cuenca are raising concerns about deteriorating walkways in several parks and public spaces, warning that the conditions pose growing safety risks for pedestrians and cyclists.
In the Kennedy neighborhood’s Linear Park, users say cracked pavement and poor drainage have made sections of the paths difficult—and at times impossible—to use. During rainy periods, standing water further worsens conditions, forcing people to avoid certain areas altogether.
The problem extends beyond a single neighborhood. Similar damage has been reported in areas such as Lavadoras de Monay along Pumapungo Avenue, as well as in linear parks near the Yanuncay River.
Recent flooding on March 12 caused significant damage to walkways along Primero de Mayo, 24 de Mayo, and De los Cantones avenues. In some sections, access has been restricted entirely due to safety concerns.
For regular users, the impact is immediate. Some residents say they are avoiding the parks or changing their routes, while others have paused outdoor activities until repairs are completed.
Officials from the municipality say cleanup and rehabilitation work is already underway following the river overflow.
According to Public Works Director José Patiño, crews are clearing debris and preparing to rebuild damaged paths using ballast and resurfacing techniques. The work is expected to take approximately six weeks, depending on weather conditions.
Efforts also include cleaning riverbanks and repairing related infrastructure, with support from regional authorities in heavily affected areas.
The maintenance of Cuenca’s linear parks falls under the Municipal Cleaning Company (EMAC EP), while broader infrastructure repairs are being coordinated by the city’s Public Works Department.
Residents are urging authorities to prioritize long-term solutions, noting that some of the walkways deteriorated quickly after being installed and have not received consistent maintenance.