Montevideo to Revise 20-Year-Old Plan for Historic Ciudad Vieja

The Montevideo Intendancy (IMM) is set to overhaul the special plan for Ciudad Vieja, the city's historic district, for the first time in two decades. The existing plan, enacted in 2003 during the tenure of former mayor Mariano Arana, has guided the neighborhood's development by setting maximum building heights, defining land use, and establishing heritage protections. Now, under the leadership of Mario Bergara, the IMM intends to update this framework to revitalize the area's tourism and residential appeal.

During a presentation at the 19th-century patrimonial building Casona Mauá, planning director María José Iglesias announced the commencement of the special plan's revision. She emphasized that Ciudad Vieja is currently a focus of national attention. The event was attended by the Undersecretary of Housing and Territorial Planning, Christian Di Candia, who is spearheading a "redensification" program aimed at utilizing large, disused buildings, such as the former Nursing School, for housing solutions.

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We are at a moment where Ciudad Vieja is on the national agenda.

Iglesias highlighted the importance of reflecting on Ciudad Vieja's evolution over the past 20 years, considering its population changes and future strategies. The Intendancy has already implemented initiatives like the "Saturdays in Ciudad Vieja" event series and extended incentives for new housing and businesses. However, the upcoming revision signals a more comprehensive approach.

According to documents obtained by El País, the new plan includes significant measures for mobility. These proposals involve "traffic calming," establishing a cycling circuit connecting Ciudad Vieja with Cerro, creating new semi-pedestrian zones, and improving parking and public transport systems. The revision aims to balance the preservation of the historic character with the needs of a modern, dynamic urban environment, fostering both residential living and economic activity.

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On a departmental level, 20 years after the 2003 plan, it is important to think about what has happened with Ciudad Vieja all these years. What is the population we have? What happened to its future strategy? Reflect on how it has changed.