Construction begins on Cataño port promenade.

By THE STAR STAFF

Cataño Mayor Julio Alicea Vasallo announced on Tuesday the start of construction on the port promenade (paseo del puerto).

“This project ... is part of a strategy aimed at organizing, connecting, and enhancing our spaces, creating the conditions for economic growth, the strengthening of local commerce, and the attraction of visitors,” the mayor stated in written remarks.

Alicea Vasallo noted that the undertaking represents a total investment of $389,835.55, of which $203,116.91 comes from federal Community Development Block Grant funds allocated by the island Housing Department, while $186,718.64 consists of municipal funds.

The project is being developed on land acquired under the administration of former Mayor Edwin Rivera Sierra -- land originally intended to connect the waterfront (frente marítimo) with the ferry terminal and the multi-story parking garage. The mayor said the current intervention expands upon that concept, incorporating new spaces and uses designed to enhance the experience for both residents and visitors.

He said the work currently underway includes the construction of a new access road, a pedestrian walkway, recreational areas for children, improvements to existing structures (such as the gazebo), new lighting, and an expansion of the site through the integration of an adjacent lot. According to the project timeline, construction is expected to be completed within 10 months. Alicea Vasallo also noted that all required permits have already been secured.