Arecibo mayor says plazas await federal funding for remodeling

Arecibo Mayor Carlos Ramírez Irizarry

By The Star Staff

Arecibo Mayor Carlos “Tito” Ramírez Irizarry has made it clear that the public plaza remodeling projects in the northern coastal city are prepared for advancement and are currently awaiting federal environmental permit approval.

“Both Plaza Luis Muñoz Rivera and Plaza Buenos Aires are fully ready for remodeling,” the mayor said. “The funds are secured, but the permit process is taking longer than anticipated.”

Plaza Luis Muñoz Rivera is actively working on securing federal environmental permits, which must be finalized before proceeding to the state endorsements and permits.

“Once we obtain both federal and state permits, we will have completed 10% of the design, and the construction bid will be ready for release,” the mayor asserted.

He added that it is crucial that the ample, leafy trees enhancing the area’s aesthetics receive the preservation space they deserve. Arecibo’s municipal records confirm that the trees were planted in 1958 and will be specially protected.

The plaza renovation project will include modern street furniture for board games such as checkers and chess, Ramírez Irizarry noted.

“We will establish a larger ornamental fountain, high-efficiency solar lighting, and specially designed paving stones to ensure visitor safety,” he said. “The marble statue of Queen Isabella II of Spain will be restored as a tribute to her regency, during which Arecibo earned the title of ‘Most Noble and Most Loyal City’ in 1850.”

Plaza Buenos Aires is in the same boat, the mayor said, waiting for approval of federal environmental permits. All local consultations have been completed, aside from the environmental protocols, he said.

“Once both processes are finalized, we will complete the remaining 5% of the design and be ready to move forward with construction bidding,” Ramírez Irizarry said. “The plaza will feature a stage for various activities, enhanced lighting, and benches that promote social interaction and foster artistic and cultural events.”

Additionally, Arecibo is committed to remodeling several streets, including Avenida José de Diego.

“We will incorporate solar lighting and adhere to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), along with improving pavement and sidewalks,” the mayor said.