Debate in Lima: Uncertain future of the megaproject at the San Martín barracks.

The San Martín barracks in Miraflores, a 68,400 m² plot that has remained vacant for years, has become the epicenter of a debate that transcends mere real estate development. This space, which borders the district of San Isidro, could house Lima's most ambitious mega-project, designed by Intercorp through its company URBI. However, the lack of concrete progress has raised numerous questions about its future and the impact it would have on the already bustling Avenida La Mar. Since its acquisition in 2010, URBI has attempted to shape a project that complies with Ordinance 1305-MML, which established specific guidelines for the development of the area. Nevertheless, over the years, the modifications proposed by the company have faced countless obstacles, particularly regarding road infrastructure requirements. The most recent controversy revolves around the replacement of the originally stipulated underground road with a grade-separated bypass, a change that has not been well received by local authorities. Criticism soon followed. The Municipality of San Isidro, under the leadership of Augusto Cáceres Viñas, expressed concern about how this new approach could affect the quality of life of residents and the urban design of the area. According to the mayor, the increase in the height of the proposed buildings would drastically alter the aesthetic character of the area, an argument that has resonated among a segment of the community that values architectural harmony. Recently, El Comercio managed to contact URBI, which confirmed that its initiative, called "Espacio Lima," not only seeks to develop a housing complex but aspires to transform it into a model of a compact and sustainable city. This approach includes not only residences but also cultural and commercial areas that, according to the company, would revitalize the zone and offer a new attraction for the local community. However, the evaluation of this proposal falls to the Metropolitan Planning Institute (IMP), an agency of the Municipality of Lima responsible for making observations and guiding the validation process. Guillermo Mallca, its executive director, stated that the modifications proposed by URBI, especially the new road solution, require a robust technical foundation to be considered viable. This process, which could be prolonged, has left many wondering if this mega-project will ever see the light of day. According to experts like Aldo Facho Dede, an architect and urban planner, the realization of this project could redraw the economic landscape of Lima. "It is poised to be one of the most notable projects of the century," he stated, highlighting the need for continuous dialogue between the public and private sectors to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are respected. However, this optimistic vision is overshadowed by the opposition of San Isidro's mayor, Nancy Vizurraga, who has expressed her firm rejection of the project. Her concern lies in the potential negative impacts on the residential environment and traffic in the area, a topic that has worried many of the nearby merchants and residents. "Private investment is welcome, as long as it does not threaten the well-being and quality of life of the neighbors," she warned. The concern regarding traffic is palpable. Neighbors and business owners have expressed fears that the arrival of a new, dense development would only exacerbate the already chaotic traffic situation on Avenida La Mar and its surroundings. Jhon Sanez, a concerned citizen, mentioned that traffic in the area is already a daily challenge, and the possible influx of thousands of new residents could turn what is currently a complicated flow into a real chaos. Despite the lack of progress, the situation of the San Martín barracks and Intercorp's project remains a hot topic in Lima's urban debate. Authorities and residents are on alert, aware that the decision made will not only affect the aesthetic and functionality of the area but could also be a determining factor in the future development of Miraflores and its surroundings. Meanwhile, time continues to pass, and the walls of the barracks stand tall, a reminder of what could be a significant urban transformation yet to come.