PDP seeks federal block on Escambrón parking garage proposal

By THE STAR STAFF

The spokesperson for the Popular Democratic Party (PDP) in the San Juan Municipal Legislature, attorney Ingrid Colberg Rodríguez, announced today, Monday, the sending of a formal letter to the Secretary of the Interior of the United States, Doug Burgum, requesting the federal government to stop Mayor Miguel Romero Lugo’s proposal to attempt to grant, for up to 90 years, rights over part of El Escambrón for the construction of a multi-story parking garage.

The Escambrón is protected by the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act, and particularly by Section 6(f)(3), which imposes federal restrictions on recreational properties that have received assistance under that program.

“Regarding this case, since June 26, 2026, we have requested basic information, which has been denied: maps, the exact boundaries of the affected area, the economic terms, contractual documents, the legal analysis, the project justification, and any communication with federal agencies. This information has not been provided to date. It is unacceptable to approve the transfer of public property for up to 90 years without documentation, without an auction, and without knowing whether federal restrictions are being violated,” stated Colberg Rodríguez.

“The pattern of evasions and half-truths surrounding this project is troubling. The Mayor describes this as a lease, but it’s really a 90-year transfer of the property. They’ve concealed detailed information about the project. A public hearing without any supporting documents is not what the people of San Juan demand,” the lawyer added.

Last Saturday, the Municipality announced a single public hearing, to be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in the Municipal Legislature’s Session Hall. Those interested in commenting on Ordinance Project No. 55 may submit a written statement on or before July 30, via email to mesantiago@sanjuan.pr .

Colberg noted that all documents must be submitted before that hearing, including the proposal for what is intended to be built there, the full terms, and evidence of compliance.

“We will not allow this issue to be rushed back or hidden away on the agenda,” stated the municipal legislator. “The citizens are taking firm steps to defend El Escambrón. First, we succeeded in having the measure removed from the agenda at the end of the fiscal year. Now we are requesting federal action to preserve the public, recreational, and protected nature of this space. The message is clear: El Escambrón is being defended in San Juan, and it will also be defended in Washington,” concluded Colberg Rodríguez.