By Paola Velasco
In various social networks in San Miguel de Allende, users have denounced the poor condition of some of the playground equipment in the children’s area of Parque Juárez. The lack of maintenance in recent years is evident, as several administrations have passed and none have made it their priority.
In 2012 the civil association Amigos del Parque, made up of a group of Mexican volunteers, began to raise funds to make much needed improvements to this area. The group invested around 2 million pesos for some of the safest, high-quality equipment available. At that time, there was every expectation that this equipment would offer enjoyment to the children of San Miguel for many years to come. However, Parque Juárez is publicly owned and administered by the municipality. As a result, the improvements had to be donated to the Municipality. The Municipality made a commitment then to maintain the equipment, and to keep it in optimal condition. Unfortunately, this has not been the case, and the playground equipment has fallen into disrepair. This puts the safety of the children at risk.
According to data provided by the Friends of the Park, this play area receives more than 1,200 visits every weekend. Both local residents and tourists with children use the equipment. Children have the right to use parks and green areas in city, and they deserve safe spaces in which to play. This should be guaranteed by any public administration.
Parque Juarez exists because of Dr. Ignacio Hernandez Macias. One hundred years ago, he made the effort to build the park to give the citizens of San Miguel a place to engage in sports, to walk with their families, or sit on a bench and read a book. It is only right that the current administration follows his example, and maintains all of Benito Juárez Park. Many people used to call this the French Park, because of its resemblance to parks in Paris. Our Parque Juarez should be a shining example of San Miguel’s commitment to its citizens, and especially its children.
