A Forgotten Industrial Zone Reborn - CIVAC Linear Park Transforms Jiutepec, Morelos

In Jiutepec, Morelos, just outside the industrial heart of Cuernavaca’s metropolitan area, a remarkable urban transformation is reshaping the local landscape. What was once a neglected and perceived dangerous stretch near the CIVAC industrial zone is now the vibrant and award-winning CIVAC Linear Park, a testament to thoughtful design and community-centered revitalization.

Jiutepec gained national prominence in the 1960s with the development of the Cuernavaca Valley Industrial City (CIVAC), one of Mexico’s most organized industrial parks. Over time, this area also grew into a residential neighborhood, but the proximity to industry gradually led to urban decay.

As certain sections became abandoned, they were seen by residents as isolated and unsafe. A group of skateboarders, however, informally reclaimed the space, using it as an improvised skate park.

The turning point came in 2021, when the Ministry of Agrarian, Territorial and Urban Development (SEDATU) included the area in its Urban Improvement Program (PMU 2021), aimed at reviving vulnerable urban spaces. Architect Rozana Montiel Saucedo, along with coauthor Claudia Rodríguez, was commissioned to reimagine the area, blending functionality with ecological preservation.

The result is the CIVAC Linear Park, which stretches 1.15 kilometers through Jiutepec. More than just a green corridor, it connects neighborhoods, improves mobility, and hosts a variety of public services and recreational spaces.

The park has a skate park

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Nature and architecture coexist throughout the project, guided by a principle of minimal environmental impact.

“We found a large number of endemic trees in the area that were over 50 years old. The challenge was to incorporate all the existing trees into the design,” the project description explains.

Montiel’s approach was to preserve and work around these trees. The civic center, which includes government offices and social service facilities, was divided into separate buildings nestled within natural clearings. Built with Texcal stone and sand-colored pigmented concrete, these structures are interlinked by terraces, gardens, and shaded walkways that harmonize with the surrounding landscape.

Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, a child development expert, underscores the importance of green spaces in urban areas for children's development. She notes that parks like CIVAC Linear Park not only enhance physical health through active play but also promote emotional well-being by providing a safe environment for social interactions.

Bryson advocates for including educational elements in parks, such as nature trails or interactive installations, to stimulate children's curiosity and learning. This approach can help cultivate a sense of environmental stewardship among young residents.

The civic center

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The park features platforms and galleries, a ceremonial hall, a multipurpose circular forum, sports courts, a playground, and a skate park, all designed to reclaim underutilized and unsafe areas for community use. The circular forum doubles as a seasonal fountain and public pool, a welcome feature during the region’s hottest days. Its popularity has boosted local commerce and helped breathe life into the surrounding neighborhood.

The civic center has become a true community hub. Inside, a spacious library lined with bookshelves and natural wood design offers a peaceful place for learning. Residents also benefit from a cafeteria, a first aid station, and workshops offering psychological and speech therapy support. Outside, children play while youth engage in BMX or skateboarding at the dedicated park.

Architect Rozana Montiel prioritized keeping as many of the original trees on the site as possible

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Urban Revitalization Insights

Dr. Robert Marzano, an education researcher known for his work on school improvement, emphasizes the role of community involvement in urban renewal projects. He states that when residents are actively engaged in the planning stages, projects like the CIVAC Linear Park tend to foster a stronger community identity and pride.

Marzano's research highlights that participatory design leads to more sustainable outcomes, as the community feels a sense of ownership. To enhance this, stakeholders should include workshops and feedback sessions to ensure diverse voices are represented in future developments.

Since its inauguration in 2022, the CIVAC Linear Park has received national and international recognition. It won the ADUS LATAM 2023/2024 Award from France’s Saint-Gobain Foundation for sustainable design, the Obras Cemex 2023 International Edition Award in the Social Value category, and a nomination at the 2024 National Biennial of Mexican Architecture.

It is also in the running for the Mies Crown Hall Americas Prize from the Illinois Institute of Technology, honoring excellence in architectural design across the Americas. Beyond accolades, the park’s true success lies in how it reintegrates government, community, and environment. It has become a symbol of what thoughtful urban renewal can achieve, a space that not only beautifies but heals and connects a city’s social fabric.

Professional Assessment & Guidance

The transformation of the CIVAC Linear Park is a compelling example of how urban spaces can be revitalized to benefit communities. Research from urban planners suggests that successful projects often incorporate elements of sustainability, accessibility, and community engagement.

Dr. George Couros, an education expert, emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in these initiatives. He recommends regular assessments and community feedback loops to adapt and improve the park's offerings over time. By prioritizing these strategies, Jiutepec can ensure that its revitalization efforts foster lasting positive impacts for its residents.