Cuenca Parks Face Maintenance Gaps As EMAC Cites Budget Limits

Several peripheral parks in Cuenca are losing some of their shine, and for families who actually use those spaces, this is more than cosmetic. The problem described across the parks is deteriorating infrastructure from lack of maintenance, including conditions that can create risk for users.

Where The Wear Shows

At Tarqui-Guzho, which opened in 2018, work is underway on the walkways. Other problems remain, including worn safety flooring in children's play areas, deteriorated wooden structures, a tarabita that is out of service, and green areas needing maintenance.

The Circo Social park also has damaged safety flooring in the children's play area, and its metal fencing shows significant oxidation. The Parque de la Luz, also opened in 2018, has worn wooden walkways, with several sections showing rot.

The list also includes Miraflores, the park in ciudadela Kennedy, and Parque de los Eucaliptos, opened in 2020, where the fountain remains out of service.

EMAC's Budget Problem

EMAC EP is responsible for maintaining most of the city's parks. The agency says limited money is restricting rehabilitation work.

Nelson Días, EMAC's head of green areas, said the company needs $250,000 to $300,000 per year to guarantee continuous maintenance for the parks under its administration.

For anyone choosing a neighborhood around parks and walkability, the useful takeaway is simple: check the park itself, not just the map. Some spaces still look great from a distance, but maintenance can vary block by block.