Guantanamo.- Although a partial reopening of Elpidio Valdés Amusement Park was announced through official channels for June 28, project managers acknowledged that the park’s infrastructure and services were not yet ready to meet the standards originally envisioned.
According to those overseeing the project, the decision to open was intended to coincide with the beginning of the summer season. However, they recognized that just over three weeks of work was insufficient to fully showcase the scope of the rehabilitation effort.
If the objective had been simply to provide recreational space for families, officials noted that other locations in the municipality, such as La Edad de Oro Park, were better prepared to fulfill that role.
As a result, the early reopening of Elpidio Valdés Park interrupted part of the restoration work that had been scheduled.
For now, visitor services remain limited. Nevertheless, local families have welcomed the opportunity to enjoy the renewed public space, particularly attractions such as riverboat rides.
The immediate objective is to complete the restoration of the park’s main mechanical attractions by mid-July, provided that the remaining equipment arrives on schedule and pending technical work is completed.
One of the most significant challenges has been rebuilding the park’s electrical system.
According to Robin Megret Pelegrín, a representative of Villa Alba, the long-term goal is to improve the park’s energy independence through the incorporation of solar-powered systems.
Like many construction projects across Cuba, the rehabilitation has faced considerable logistical and financial challenges.
Fuel shortages have significantly increased operating costs, as part of the fuel supply must be obtained outside the province. This has raised transportation expenses, slowed construction progress, and is expected to affect future operating costs.
Additional challenges include delays in obtaining construction materials, assembling equipment, and restoring infrastructure that had gone years without receiving substantial investment.
Administrative procedures have also delayed the implementation of electronic payment systems. Because one of the participating companies has yet to complete the necessary formalities, some park services currently accept cash only on a temporary basis.
Under the management agreement, the park will retain its public character while protecting the investment made in its restoration. Villa Alba will oversee the park’s operations, while facilities such as the main cafeteria and amphitheater will remain under state administration.
The rehabilitation of Elpidio Valdés Amusement Park represents more than the restoration of a recreational facility. After years of neglect and limited investment, the project marks a significant effort to revive one of Guantánamo’s most cherished public spaces.
Although progress remains gradual, the work carried out by two private companies has already begun to transform the park.
The project’s true success will ultimately be measured once all planned phases have been completed and the park is fully operational.
For now, this summer’s partial reopening—while earlier than originally intended—represents the first milestone in a long-term effort to restore Elpidio Valdés Park for future generations.
