Cuenca Urban Development: New Markets, Parks & Enhanced City Living

Cuenca, Ecuador, is currently experiencing a wave of positive transformation, spearheaded by the administration's commitment to what Mayor Cristian Zamora calls "dignity." This vision translates into tangible improvements aimed at enhancing the daily lives of all residents – from cleaner streets and better sidewalks to upgraded public spaces and modern market facilities. These initiatives underscore a clear focus on Cuenca's quality of life, creating an even more appealing environment for both locals and expats.

Cuenca's Urban Renewal: Investing in Dignity and Quality of Life

The current Cuenca administration is making significant strides in urban development, prioritizing projects that bring order, efficiency, and beauty to the city. Mayor Cristian Zamora's emphasis on "dignity" reflects a comprehensive approach to urban renewal, ensuring cleaner surroundings, improved infrastructure, and more accessible public spaces for everyone. This commitment is evident in the strategic investments across key areas of the city.

Modernizing Cuenca's Public Markets: A Boost for Commerce and Community

Plataforma Narancay: A New Horizon for Southern Merchants

On June 24, 2025, Cuenca's merchants visited the ongoing construction of the new Plataforma Narancay, located on the Circunvalación Sur. This significant project, backed by an investment of over USD 336,000, is set to transform commerce in the southern part of the city. The Markets Directorate has assured an equitable allocation of vendor stalls, reflecting a commitment to fair practices. Merchants have actively participated, valuing the consistent dialogue and collaborative engagement with authorities throughout the project. The new space will feature 15 modern wash areas, six dedicated bathroom blocks, and crucially, inclusive access for people with disabilities, ensuring it serves the entire community.

Revitalizing Central Commerce: Mall de la Ropa y Artesanías & Strategic Reorganizations

The city's commitment to revitalizing commerce extends to the Historic Center. Mayor Cristian Zamora recently announced the new Mall de la Ropa y Artesanías project, set to bring a vibrant new commercial dynamic to the heart of Cuenca. This initiative builds on successful reorganizations implemented at other key market areas.

Antonio Valdivieso Platform: Order and Opportunity for Former "9 de Octubre" Merchants

A significant step in this urban order initiative involved the strategic relocation of 294 autonomous merchants who previously operated around the Mercado 9 de Octubre, particularly along Vega Muñoz street. These vendors have successfully moved to the new Antonio Valdiviezo platform, located between Vargas Machuca and Tomás Ordóñez. This bold measure, a direct decision by Mayor Zamora, aims to restore order and dignify the work of these important entrepreneurs, offering integral solutions for this vital sector.

Mayor Zamora personally verified the start of activities, noting, "This sector, which was chaotic due to informal sales, begins its transformation today as we reestablish order." With an investment of $341,130, the Antonio Valdiviezo platforms provide a modern, organized space that directly benefits merchants, fostering their development. This move also significantly improves vehicular flow and liberates sidewalks, enhancing safety and mobility for both pedestrians and vehicles in the area. The platform operates Monday to Sunday from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering a diverse range of products including fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood, clothing, tech items, and household hygiene products. Merchants like María Pineda express their satisfaction: "As producers, it's good because now we can sell calmly without being on the street," while María Rosa Yunga gratefully states, "Thanks to the Mayor for taking us into account and giving us a workspace."

El Cebollar Market: Enhancing Local Trade

Further bolstering market infrastructure, the El Cebollar area has seen investment in its communal house "Vinicio Andrade" and a dedicated platform for vegetable merchants, with a significant investment of $415,000. These improvements support local producers and ensure a better environment for daily trade.

Beyond markets, Cuenca's administration is dedicated to beautifying and improving the city's green spaces and overall urban experience.

Parque del Arco: A Green Oasis for Cuencanos

The Parque del Arco project is progressing well, currently at 58% completion, representing an investment of $1,440,000. This vital urban green space is not just about aesthetics; it's a testament to community involvement, with nearly 10,000 trees and plants planted through 30 "mingas" (community workdays). Upcoming electrical installations and new luminaires will further enhance the park's safety and appeal. While works on Av. Loja are underway, requiring alternate routes, these temporary inconveniences pave the way for long-term improvements to the city's infrastructure.

Parque del Arco: A Green Oasis for Cuencanos

The Parque del Arco project is progressing well, currently at 58% completion, representing an investment of $1,440,000. This vital urban green space is not just about aesthetics; it's a testament to community involvement, with nearly 10,000 trees and plants planted through 30 "mingas" (community workdays). Upcoming electrical installations and new luminaires will further enhance the park's safety and appeal. While works on Av. Loja are underway, requiring alternate routes, these temporary inconveniences pave the way for long-term improvements to the city's infrastructure.