The historic Colonial City is taking significant strides in its revitalization efforts with the official reopening of Padre Billini and Duarte streets within the Unesco World Heritage site. Tourism Minister David Collado inaugurated the redeveloped thoroughfares on Friday, 4 July 2025, marking a tangible advance in the comprehensive urban and tourism development program for the area.
Minister Collado shared the news on his official X account, stating: “The revitalization project is moving forward with firm steps and visible results!” He emphasized that the reopening of these streets, a crucial part of the Colonial City’s Integral Tourism and Urban Development Program, will be supported by the General Traffic Safety and Land Transportation Agency (Digesett) and the Central Tourism Police Agency (Politur) to ensure safety and organization for both residents and visitors.
Beyond the newly opened streets, Collado highlighted the progress in other facets of the revitalization. The Ministry of Tourism mentions the restoration of 12 building facades, significantly enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the historic district. Crucial works like the Duarte Park are also moving forward as part of this integrated redevelopment process, which is being carried out in collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
The reopening on Friday, 4 July 2025 of Padre Billini and Duarte streets follows a period of pressure from Minister Collado on contractors involved in the Colonial City projects. On the previous Tuesday, the minister had issued a forceful directive to accelerate the completion of intervened streets, warning of legal action against those who failed to meet deadlines.
During a meeting with contractors and local business owners, Collado publicly stated: “I want to tell you publicly here that if, starting today, you don’t redouble your efforts, don’t bring in more personnel, I will have to prosecute you legally.”
He specifically demanded that Las Mercedes street be completed this July, threatening legal repercussions if the deadline is not met. Furthermore, Collado instructed those responsible for the Colonial City project to ensure the provision of aid outlined in the initiative to support small businesses, some of which have been impacted by street closures during the construction.
The Ministry of Tourism also announced funding for renovations of private houses located in the historical zone.
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Diario Libre
El Dia
8 July 2025