Quintana Roo Beach Restoration Project Expansion Pending Approval

Nearly two decades after the devastating impact of Hurricane Wilma in 2005, coastal erosion remains a significant threat to the beaches of northern Quintana Roo, a key tourist destination in Mexico. In response to this ongoing issue, the state government is planning to expand the beach recovery project that was first introduced in 2009 and updated in 2019. This expansion aims to cover areas that have been severely eroded.

Oscar Rebora, State Secretary of Environment, announced that a proposal has been submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT). The proposal seeks to modify the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) project's scope, with a goal to increase the intervention areas by 30%. This proposed extension includes an additional six kilometers in Puerto Morelos, Cancun's hotel zone, and Playa del Carmen, all of which are experiencing severe coastal deterioration.

Rebora explained, "Coastal erosion has been a persistent issue that has intensified after each hurricane that has hit the region. This is why we are justifying the need to include these critical areas, which were not considered in the original project."

While the technical proposal is progressing, the costs and sources of funding for the project have not been finalized. In the project's initial phase, resources were derived from an additional 25% charge applied to the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (ZOFEMAT). This funding model could potentially be adjusted to support the project's expansion. Rebora also emphasized the plan to engage the business sector once the technical details are ironed out.

Coastal erosion has been a recurring challenge for the region since 2005, when Hurricane Wilma caused extensive damage to infrastructure and coastal ecosystems. Subsequent hurricanes, including Dean, Emily, and Delta, have further exacerbated the issue, underscoring the need for a comprehensive and sustained solution.

Rebora acknowledged that while the project's expansion aims to address the most affected areas, it will not completely eliminate erosion. Future stages of the project will aim to cover other areas.

"We maintain regular communication with the Federation to ensure the work is carried out efficiently and in line with environmental regulations. Despite the economic and operational challenges, we continue to make progress in protecting our natural heritage, which is also a critical driver of our economy," Rebora concluded.