Without street vendors, visitors enjoy a tranquil Alameda Central
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Mexico City's Alameda Central has seen a significant reduction in street vendors following a government agreement and police enforcement.
- Visitors are enjoying the park's tranquility, with many appreciating the absence of persistent vendors.
- Authorities plan to continue operations to ensure the Alameda remains accessible to all, with vendors now having designated rest days.
Alameda Central, a popular park in Mexico City, is experiencing a new sense of calm as authorities have successfully removed a large number of street vendors. For three consecutive days, the park's pathways have been clear of the usual umbrellas, merchandise displays, and makeshift tables, following coordinated clean-up operations initiated over the weekend.
This place is like an oasis of tranquility, it's great that there isn't so much street vending.
Visitors have welcomed the change, describing the park as an "oasis of tranquility." Miguel รngel, a park-goer, expressed his satisfaction with the reduced vendor presence, noting that the area is much improved without excessive commercial activity. On a recent visit, observers saw couples relaxing on the lawns, people enjoying snacks on benches, and children playing by the fountains, activities previously hampered by the bustling vendor scene.
The initiative, driven by the Subsecretariat of Mayoralty Programs and Public Space Reorganization, aims to restore the Alameda as a public space for everyone. Marco, another visitor, supported the measure, mentioning that the vendors could be overly insistent, particularly with tourists. The agreement allows vendors to rest on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with plans for them to return in reduced numbers on other days, a stark contrast to the previous situation where they overwhelmed the space.
They are very insistent for you to buy from them, especially to visitors and foreigners.
Cรฉsar Cravioto, Secretary of Government of Mexico City, affirmed on social media that operations would continue until vendors understand that the Alameda belongs to all citizens. This effort seeks to balance the needs of vendors with the public's right to enjoy the park's amenities without constant commercial pressure, ensuring a more peaceful and accessible experience for all.
The operations will continue in the area until the groups (of vendors) understand that the Alameda belongs to everyone.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.