Street Vendors Near Cuenca’s 9 de Octubre Market to Be Relocated Starting January 20

Starting January 20, 2025, street vendors operating near Cuenca’s 9 de Octubre Market will begin relocating to two new temporary platforms. These platforms, located on Antonio Valdiviezo Street between Vargas Machuca and Tomás Ordoñez, aim to free up the sidewalks around the market.

The Valdiviezo Platform was completed in December 2024 with an investment of approximately $341,130, though the allocation of spaces is still pending.

What to Expect During the Relocation

Mayor Cristian Zamora announced that around 350 vendors will be moved by the end of January. He emphasized strict enforcement to prevent vendors from returning to the cleared streets.

“We’ll begin with Vega Muñoz and Mariano Cueva, clearing block by block. No one will be allowed back once we’ve cleared a street—this will be enforced to the full extent of the law,” Zamora stated.

However, he admitted this is only a partial solution since the number of vendors far exceeds the available spots on the new platforms. He stressed the need for more public spaces to provide better conditions for all.

Vendor Concerns

Mayita Pérez, president of the “16 de Septiembre” Vendors Association, expressed concerns over the new arrangements:

- The platform spaces are too small for some vendors' needs.

- The selection process for assigning spots remains unclear.

- There are around 1,000 street vendors, but only 300 available spaces.

Diego Cedillo, Cuenca’s Director of Markets, explained that priority will be given to vendors who were previously registered and have been in the area the longest. Vendors have called for transparency in the allocation process to ensure fairness.

Additionally, Pérez requested that the platforms be reserved exclusively for current street vendors from the 9 de Octubre area, without including vendors from other markets who already have allocated spaces.

Quality and Longevity of the Platforms

The new platforms, built with reinforced concrete, are designed to last at least 20 years, according to Jairo Larriva, Director of Municipal Oversight. He assured that the structures meet technical standards, and quality guarantees have been put in place for both the materials and the furniture.

Background on Street Vendors

The vendors near the 9 de Octubre Market sell a variety of products, including:

- Clothing and footwear.

- Cleaning supplies.

- Fruits and vegetables.

Source: El Mercurio.