### The Deterioration of Parque de la Ocho Between Trash and Neglect
The issues of litter, poor maintenance, and the presence of homeless individuals are proving difficult to resolve, according to Martín Muñoz.
Citizens are calling for more cultural and sporting events in the park. Elizabeth Díaz, pictured waiting on a bench at Parque de la Ocho for a civil association meeting, reflects a common sentiment. The park’s green areas are parched due to lack of irrigation, with trash strewn about, and overflowing bins.
Despite some sporadic visits, Elizabeth observes the park’s decline, noting that what once served the community, especially seniors like herself, now feels unwelcoming and grimy. “It’s very neglected. When it started, it was much cleaner. It needs more attention, but that’s how all of Tijuana is,” she expressed.
Elizabeth would love to see cultural and sporting events revitalizing the space, giving it new life. “It’s very neglected for being so close to the police and everything,” she added.
Juan Loza shares similar frustrations, mentioning that graffiti and the presence of homeless people dominate the park, particularly the children’s play area.
“I’m here rarely, and when I do come, it’s always the same mess. Teniente Guerrero Park is even worse with many more vagrants,” Juan commented.
Parque de la Ocho, inaugurated over eight years ago by then-Mayor Jorge Astiazarán Orcí, has since deteriorated. Originally hosting the police, jail, fire station, and municipal workshops, it faces ongoing waste, maintenance, and homeless challenges.
“A government project that neglects maintenance is destined to fail. The city may not drop the trash, but it seeks to provide the best service. If the public does not fulfill its part, the task is never-ending,” stated Martín Muñoz Avilés, delegate of the Central Zone.
He emphasized that delegation staff clean the park daily, but frequent visits from homeless individuals negate their efforts. Other parks, like Teniente Guerrero, face similar issues.
Efforts to manage park cleanliness and activities continue daily, but lasting effects require broader support. Vandalism and limited recreational activities challenge the park’s usability.
Civil associations hold artistic and cultural events intermittently, and there’s occasional police surveillance, according to Muñoz Avilés. However, more collaboration between society and government is needed to address ongoing issues.
Parque de la Ocho features green spaces, children’s play areas, police facilities, and a civic plaza that can accommodate about 50 people. A structure in one of its corners resembles the pedestrian crossing into Tijuana from the United States.
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### Additional News: Tijuana’s Park Management Challenges
Recent coverage highlights similar challenges in other Tijuana parks, underscoring pervasive issues with litter, maintenance, and vandalism.
Efforts by the local government to revitalize these spaces often fall short due to ongoing misuse and neglect. The presence of homeless individuals continues to be a significant challenge, complicating maintenance and deterring visitors.
Community initiatives aimed at improving these spaces are on the rise, with environmental groups like COSTASALVAJE promoting plastic reduction and local involvement in park upkeep. Despite these efforts, a collaborative approach between citizens and government is crucial for lasting improvements.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for more updates on local efforts to address and improve public spaces in Tijuana.