As part of urban improvement works in the Historic Center of the city, the Monterrey City Council announced the temporary closure of Francisco Javier Mina street, between Matamoros and Abasolo. The traffic restriction will apply starting this Monday, March 23, and will remain in effect until Saturday, March 28, during which banquet facilities in the Barrio Antiguo area will be rehabilitated, the Municipal Government reported. It stated that despite the closure, traffic will be permitted at intersections with other arteries, where Monterrey's Traffic Department staff will be on hand to expedite the flow of vehicles. These actions are part of the "Barrio Antiguo, Barrio Bonito" program, launched by Mayor Adrián de la Garza, which includes the rehabilitation of pedestrian and vehicular areas to improve the urban image and prepare the zone to receive visitors during upcoming international events, such as the FIFA World Cup. Additionally, the municipality is also undertaking the complete reconstruction of Francisco Naranjo street, from Abasolo to Morelos, as well as renovation works at Plaza del Reloj. Works to be Completed for the World Cup Despite complaints from businesses and residents of Barrio Antiguo about delays in rehabilitation works for the World Cup, Arturo Cantú González, Director of Tourism for Monterrey, confirmed that the remodeling projects are scheduled for completion before the start of the world championship. The official emphasized that these works are being carried out in close coordination with the establishments and businesses in the area to ensure that the final result is mutually beneficial. Cantú González stressed that although time and resources are limited, work is being done in the most optimal way to meet the established deadlines. "Our goal is by the start of the World Cup," explained the director. He pointed out that processes have already begun to complete the current projects on time and form. Regarding the possible inconveniences that the works could cause to tenants and visitors, the head of Tourism avoided qualifying them as an obstruction. "The word 'hinder' is very delicate because at the end of the day, what we are doing together is for the mutual benefit of both commerce and those who visit it," he explained. Cantú reiterated that the government and merchants "are working hand in hand" in this effort. Regarding the current impact on tourist activity, Cantú González reported that to date, no negative effects on the influx of people to this historic sector have been reported.
