San Juan Mayor Miguel Romero announced a $6.1 million renovation project for Plaza de la Convalecencia and Plaza del Pilar in the Río Piedras urban center. The funds come from the City Revitalization program’s CDBG allocation, assigned in 2018 to improve public spaces. Planned work includes structural rehabilitation, new pavement, repaired pedestrian ramps, installation of water "chorritos" (splash features) for children, security cameras, panic buttons linked to police, wifi service, public restroom rehabilitation, and accessibility upgrades required by federal law.
Romero said the goal is for Río Piedras families to enjoy their plaza the way residents of Condado enjoy Stella Maris or Old San Juan enjoys Plaza del Quinto Centenario. Construction will take an estimated 12 months and begin at Plaza del Pilar first, to avoid closing both plazas simultaneously and to coordinate with contractors, the Community Board, and merchants.