SAN DIEGO (Border Report) — A city project to modernize Tijuana’s most iconic tourist destination won’t be ready by next month as promised, according to José Carlos Robles Literas, president of the Commercial Tourism Businessmen and Merchants Association.
Avenida Revolución is roughly an eight-block area lined with shops, restaurants and clubs.
It’s always been a popular stop for tourists considering it’s a short walk from the San Ysidro Port of Entry, and this is where you will find the 200-foot tall archway known as the international clock, a symbol of Tijuana’s welcoming spirit to visitors.
Last year, the city began work to remodel the avenue, making it more pedestrian friendly while expanding space for additional restaurants, patio-bars and shops.
“There’s still dirt everywhere, streets have to be paved, the water lines will probably get done by September, but I’m guessing everything won’t be completed till the end of October or early November,” Robles Literas said. “There’s no way it gets done in two weeks, unless they work all day and night and fill it with laborers.”
He stated merchants have been patiently waiting for the work to finish considering the summer tourist season has been down when sales tend to surge by 20 to 30 percent.
“Tourism has not bounced back like in past years, same thing with medical tourism, which is down by 40 percent due to all the problems in the United States and its immigration policies.”
Robles Literas says he’s concerned, especially with about 30 nearby restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops and doctors’ offices that continue to stay open despite construction taking place.
Even with the delays, he remains positive about the new look and accessibility for Avenida Revolución.
“It will have a modern design that is inviting for pedestrians along the same level as many cosmopolitan cities.”
The city has said delays have been a result of complications in installing new water mains and other pipes in the area.
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