Protect Rincon's Coastline Stop the Bike Path

Coastal communities, environmental organizations, and the Management Committee of the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve celebrate a historic victory in defense of one of Puerto Rico’s most important marine ecosystems, following the ruling of the Court of First Instance of Aguadilla, which revoked the permits for the Rincón Bike and Pedestrian Path project and ordered the immediate halt of all related construction activities.

The court ruling concluded that the Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority authorized and processed the project in violation of applicable regulations, making substantial changes without the required amendments, using incorrect or incomplete information, and obtaining permits and certifications that did not comply with legal requirements or existing environmental restrictions.

The Court further determined that the project impacted protected areas of high ecological value, including sectors near the Maritime Land Zone and public domain lands, and ordered the preparation of a plan to identify affected areas and establish stabilization and environmental remediation measures.

This ruling brings to an end more than a year and a half of sustained civic mobilization and confirms the concerns raised by communities and organizations since the project's beginning.

This victory could not have been possible without the tireless efforts of local and groups, including : 

• Amigos de Tres Palmas
• Paseo Responsable
• Bosque La Armonía
• Campamento CEMI
• Siete Colindantes
• Rescate Camino El Faro
• Rincón Water Safety
• Isla Mar
• Surfrider Foundation – Rincón Chapter
• Surfrider Foundation Puerto Rico

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