El Centro property and business owners say will hold city to its tram construction schedule

Signs post tram schedule dates. Credit: El Tiempo

A group of property and business owners in Cuenca’s historic district say they are holding the city to its promises to finish tram construction on schedule.

The group, which calls itself the Veeduría Tram Commission, is erecting signs along the construction routes on Gran Colombia and Mariscal La Mar, posting the dates the city says it will complete its work.

Spokesperson for the group, Teresa Bermeo, say property owners are tired of construction schedules that have not been met. “They tell us that this time the construction will finish on time because the contracts cannot be violated. Our signs tell everyone the promises they have made.”

Two weeks ago, the city announced a 24-hour a day, seven-day-a-week work schedule for the tram and assured property owners along the construction routes that work will be completed on time.

Tram project manager for the city Gerard Fernandez says contractors are committed to meeting deadlines but added that unforeseen circumstances could cause affect the schedule. One unresolved issue involves work on water mains on Gran Colombia, near Casa de las Posadas. Fernandez he expects delivery of a report today that recommends a solution.

Fernandez says there is little that can be done about noise complaints from residents in the construction zones. “We have no choice but to work around the clock to finish the project,” he said. “I understand that it creates discomfort but work will be completed sooner as a result.”

The Veeduría Commission says that residents are being kept awake at night because of construction noise and bright lights.