Ciudadela Calderon Residents Want Repairs, Cameras and Environmental Monitoring

Residents of Ciudadela Calderon are pressing for action on a mix of infrastructure, security and environmental concerns in one of Cuenca's northern neighborhoods.

The neighborhood sits near Parque Industrial and Milchichig, with about 1,000 residents living in the area.

What Neighbors Are Asking For

Residents say the neighborhood needs attention to recreational spaces, sidewalks, lighting, security coverage and environmental monitoring.

The area has two sports courts and green areas with children's games, but neighbors say the facilities show clear deterioration.

Antonio Pesantez, a resident and transport worker, said the children's games are more than 20 years old and have not received maintenance. He said the structures represent a risk for children.

The sports courts also need work. Residents pointed to damaged goal nets, damaged basketball boards and bleachers that need intervention.

Sidewalks, a Sinkhole and Public Space

Neighbors are also asking for repairs to sidewalks and a definitive solution for a sinkhole on Avenida de la Independencia.

Margarita Quezada, president of the neighborhood, said the local board has been doing maintenance work because of limited attention from authorities and limited resources.

She said the board filed a request with EMAC EP more than one month ago and had not received a response.

Night Security and Environmental Concerns

Residents say crime has decreased in recent months, but they still see certain points as security concerns because of past assaults.

The Consejo de Seguridad Ciudadana has installed community alarms in the sector, but neighbors say cameras are still missing.

One resident, Silvia Zhingri, said a recovered property has been adapted for Guardia Ciudadana use, but the service operates only until 18:00, leaving concern about nighttime controls.

Neighbors also want ongoing environmental monitoring because the neighborhood sits near the industrial zone. Residents recently reported red particles in the area; Quezada said authorities and company representatives committed to addressing the issue through filter changes, and residents have not seen the particles since.

For expats, this is a useful neighborhood-level story to watch. It shows how daily quality-of-life issues in Cuenca often move through neighborhood boards, municipal companies, security councils and public pressure before they turn into visible repairs.