AQUAPARQUE in the CITY OF MERIDA, YUCATAN, 2006-2007

This project transformed an abandoned stone quarry into a public park space, making the least change for the greatest possible effect.

This site is over 140,000 square meters, and was off limits to the established neighborhoods that surround it. It was abandoned after a hurricane flooded it eight years ago. Perceived as a health threat, the city government was under pressure to restore the site. This design for a public park with extensive water features was accepted, as it provided a high return on a relatively small investment. Aesthetically, technically, and environmentally water was made highly visible, creating a theme and an opportunity for multiple centers and activities aimed at different sectors.

Instead of a landfill, the flooded grounds were further excavated to shape water bodies, and the excavated materials were used to construct a network of access roads and paths for public access. Over 700 waterlilies of various colors and varieties were distributed in themed ponds. As part of a strategy to improve water quality, marginal aquatics were also planted, as well as oxigenating plants, and 300 two-inch koi specimens, and 30,000 Chiclasoma urophtalmus fry were released. Water was also treated with Microbelift bacteria achieving extraordinary clarity.

The work to be done in the first stage included building walkwaysl and laying large rocks to border the ponds; clearing the cattails and other reeds in water-covered areas along the walkways to accommodate the ponds and water gardens; repairing the thatched-roof constructions and sanitary installations; improvement of the main access road; repairing the bridges along the walkways and the construction of a fishing dock.