URBAN PROJECT
Project Management.
A 170-hectare urban renewal initiative to revitalize the historical center of Loja, Ecuador, focusing on infrastructural modernization and cultural preservation.
This large-scale project aimed to renovate the city's core and significantly upgrade its public service networks. My role extended beyond management into visionary urban design. I was personally responsible for developing the new pavement concepts and designing new public squares, drawing direct inspiration from Loja's rich historical culture to ensure the renewal celebrated local identity. This involved collaborating with local artisans to handcraft street pavements, embedding unique artistry into the very fabric of the city.
A core part of my contribution was ** championing a pedestrian-first strategy** for the city center. I proposed transforming key avenues into pedestrian-friendly public spaces to improve livability, safety, and social interaction. This concept was initially met with significant reticence from local stakeholders who feared negative impacts on commerce. Through persistent advocacy and evidence-based proposals, we successfully negotiated a compromise, resulting in the pedestrianization of several key streets—a critical first step towards a more human-scale urban environment.
The strategic and cultural significance of this approach was recognized on a global stage. I was invited to present this project and its outcomes at the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development (Habitat III) in Quito, Ecuador, in 2016. This allowed me to share the lessons learned in balancing modernization with cultural heritage and stakeholder engagement within the international urban development community.
Client: Council of Loja , Ecuador
Location: Loja , Ecuador
Status: Completed
