Neighbors Say Parque Miraflores Needs Repairs And Better Security

Parque Miraflores is supposed to be one of northern Cuenca’s big open spaces. Neighbors now say the park feels neglected, with damaged sports areas, closed bathrooms, lighting concerns, and safety problems after dark.

What neighbors reported

El Mercurio describes the park as having multiple sports spaces, including the Jefferson Pérez athletic track, plus courts for soccer, basketball, and ecuavoley. But residents say many courts lack markings, soccer goals have damaged nets, basketball boards are missing, and the ecuavoley areas turn muddy when it rains.

The children’s area is also part of the complaint. The report notes swings without seats, walkways without boards, and rusted slides. Public bathroom structures remain closed, according to the same report.

The security concern

Gloria Méndez, a resident, told El Mercurio that people gather near the temple and monument to Pope John Paul II to consume alcohol and other substances. Her concern was direct: residents do not feel safe walking through the area at night because they fear robbery or worse.

Neighbors also pointed to limited police capacity. The park has a Unidad de Policía Comunitaria, but residents said it does not have enough personnel to respond to emergencies.

Why expats should pay attention

Miraflores is not a small pocket park. It is a practical recreation area for walking, exercise, family time, and neighborhood life in the north of the city. If you use the area, the advice is simple: go during busier daylight hours, stay aware around isolated sections, and do not assume lighting or patrols will be consistent.

José Morales, president of the Santa Ana de los Cuatro Ríos neighborhood, said residents have sent several requests for full maintenance, electrical repairs, and stronger security. Neighbors planned to meet to coordinate next steps and press authorities for intervention.

Source: El Mercurio