After months of construction, the first phase of the Avenida Revolución pedestrian walkway renovation was inaugurated Friday in Tijuana’s downtown area.
The ceremony was led by Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda and Tijuana Mayor Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, marking a major milestone in the city’s ongoing effort to restore one of its most emblematic corridors.
According to Jesús García Castro, director of the State Commission of Public Services of Tijuana (CESPT), the project covered the stretch between Fourth and Sixth streets.
Infrastructure Upgrades
The renovation required an investment of 25 million pesos (approximately $1.4 million USD), which funded the modernization of water, sewage, and drainage systems along the avenue.
The work included the installation of 4,550 square meters (about 49,000 square feet) of concrete, 1,350 square meters (roughly 14,500 square feet) of volcanic porphyry stone, and quartz borders, along with new benches, rainwater grates, and resurfaced sidewalks and pavement.
García Castro noted that additional storm drainage was installed to complement the potable water and sewage networks, replacing deteriorated pipes that had been in service for more than 50 years. The upgrades are expected to prevent future collapses and ensure a more efficient water supply.
He also thanked Governor Ávila for making the renovation possible, calling it “a legacy for the city of Tijuana.”
A Long-Awaited Project
Governor Marina del Pilar emphasized that the revitalization of Avenida Revolución has been one of her administration’s key commitments since her campaign for governor.
“This was a promise I made to the people of Tijuana, to the business community, and to the merchants who give life to this avenue,” she said.
She added that the project faced challenges early on but advanced significantly thanks to collaboration with Mayor Burgueño’s administration.
“This is a city that deserves safe, welcoming spaces — for families, for residents, and for the tourists who come from around the world to experience Tijuana,” the governor said.
She also acknowledged Carlos Torres, former coordinator of strategic projects for Tijuana, for his work in recovering public spaces across the city.
Reviving Tijuana’s Cultural Heart
Governor Ávila noted that Avenida Revolución — long considered a cultural and tourist landmark — will once again become a space filled with “art, music, and life.”
She confirmed that upcoming phases of the project will extend the renovation north to Calle Coahuila and south to Calle Novena, pending coordination with the city government.
The administration also plans to host regular cultural activations throughout the year, including holiday-themed events in December.
Friday’s inauguration featured circus performers, stilt walkers, live orchestra music, dancers, and street artists, drawing enthusiastic crowds despite cloudy skies.
Public Reaction
Residents and business owners welcomed the completed section of the walkway, saying it has already made the area feel safer and more inviting for visitors.
“It feels more welcoming now. Before, people were afraid to come here. Now it looks more like a tourist area,” said Arquímides, a local resident.
Ofelia, a snack vendor, agreed. “Business should get better now. We used to have to watch out for cars all the time, but now people can walk more comfortably.”
