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Mountain biking supporters aired their worries on Tuesday concerning a proposed development in Cabo Rojo that is obstructing access to a site frequently utilized for cycling.
“Cabo Rojo is the hub for mountain biking, attracting thousands of cyclists on weekends to enjoy the trails in the vicinity of the Esencia project’s proposal. This significantly contributes to the local economy,” said activist Guarionex Padilla Martí during a Radio Isla report. “It is quite concerning that these access points, long serving as routes for cycling and hiking, are now being closed. The Esencia project has been advertised as one that ensures access to the maritime-terrestrial zone and is eco-conscious. However, this conduct suggests otherwise.”
This initiative, led by British investors Simon and David Reuben, requires an estimated $2 billion investment for 2,000 acres of coastal property and is anticipated to create over 2,000 jobs during its operational phase. The luxury project is slated for completion within seven to ten years. The Puerto Rican architectural firm Álvarez-Díaz & Villalón, whose partners Cristina Villalón and Ricardo Álvarez Díaz notably contributed to Gov. Jenniffer González Colón’s recent campaign, has been commissioned for the project.
Environmental advocates have expressed worries regarding the development’s site near the maritime land zone in the Punta de Melones and Laguna Rincón sectors.
“We received a report about a structure visible from the sea, and upon our arrival, we encountered security personnel monitoring the entrance of the construction site. They were denying access to cyclists and others,” attorney Francisco Vargas stated. “We’ve seen developers assert they would keep roads accessible and maintain paths for cyclists, yet they currently possess no permits and are limiting access to roads and areas regularly frequented by hikers and cyclists.”
Three Rules Capital, the entity behind Esencia, along with Ana G. Méndez University, entered into a collaborative agreement on January 14 to enhance the hospitality, tourism, and culinary arts curriculum at the Cabo Rojo campus.
Padilla Martí remarked that the municipality has conditionally supported the project due to apprehensions regarding access to beaches and drinking water consumption.
“We are already experiencing challenges with our drinking water supply, particularly on weekends when hundreds of thousands flock to the Combate area,” he mentioned. “Esencia is more than just a hotel complex with tourist and residential components; it also includes a golf course in its plans, which would result in increased water consumption that we cannot afford.”
