WE STAND WITH
PASEO RESPONSABLE
Advocating for a Responsible Bike Path in Rincón, Puerto rico.
The Scenic Route for Cyclists and Pedestrians is a federally funded project currently underway, but its design—developed nearly 20 years ago—now poses a threat to sensitive coastal ecosystems and local economic resources.
While the goal of improving pedestrian access is commendable, we are committed to ensuring a responsible redesign that protects Rincón’s coastline, beaches, and green spaces while promoting sustainable recreation for all.
The current design raises serious concerns.
It threatens coastal habitats, protected ecosystems, and local biodiversity, including Tres Palmas Marine Reserve and Bosque Comunitario La Armonía.
The plan lacks updated environmental reviews, overlooks recent coastal changes, and may violate federal laws like the Endangered Species Act and Clean Water Act.
Beyond environmental risks, it could harm Rincón’s tourism-based economy by limiting beach access, altering surf conditions, and reducing parking.
A better, viable alternative is needed—one that protects the environment and preserves Rincón’s identity as a world-class surf and wildlife destination.
WHAT IS THE Current Project:
Bicycle and Pedestrian Route
From Domes Beach to Rincon Public Beach
AC-500023/ZP-9999(240)
Who is Funding This Project?
The Rincón Bike & Pedestrian Trail is funded by the Puerto Rico Highway & Transportation Authority and the Federal Highway Administration. The projects budget is listed at $10.8 million dollars.
Who are the key players responsible the proposed plan?
O&M Engineering, Tamrio Construction, Mayor Carlos Bonilla, Puerto Rico Highway Authority, Federal Highway Administration
Where The Path Goes:
This project is roughly 3.408 kilometers long – about 2.1 miles. The route starts at Dome’s Beach and ends at the Balneario (Rincón Public Beach). It also includes construction modifications to the Lighthouse (El Faro) and to Cambija Plaza. It includes a parking lot, a resting and bike parking area, lighting system, PREPA (electric) and PRASA (sewage) utilities, a new drainage system, retaining walls, and signage.
This bike path will be built on Maria’s Beach, Dome’s Beach, Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, the Marina wet land and the Public Beach.
What Is Being Removed, Destroyed, and Built?
As of right now, the bike path will:
remove the community built areas of La Armonía Community Forest in Playas Marias (Maria’s Beach).
pave over the grassy walkway under the tall palms at Tres Palmas Marine Reserve.
remove the trees and destroy the camping sites at Domes Beach.
pave over the lower level parking lot of Domes Beach to be used for a bike path and roundabout thus removing the entire lower section of parking.
remove the trees and natural walking / bike path behind Villa de Zecheo / Dogman’s Beach.
remove the base of the parking lot at Step’s Beach to turn it into a roundabout bike path.
As of right now, the bike path will build:
6ft retaining walls on the coastline thus removing key parking areas, walkways, campsites, and access points to the beach.
build bike and pedestrian asphalt roads 12 feet wide.
build a parking lot across from the lighthouse.
Rendered Photos of the Plan
*The Company O&M Engineering has since REMOVED these images from their website and social platforms as of Mid March when protesting began.
WHATS AT STAKE
• Violation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) – The project lacks a current and transparent environmental review, as required by federal law.
• Noncompliance with the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) – The project affects the Maritime-Terrestrial Zone (ZMT) without adequate studies to protect coastal ecosystems and marine protected areas (MPAs) containing ESA-listed species such as elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) and others.
• Omission of the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve (RMTP) – A federally-registered marine protected area (MPA) that is missing from official project documentation, raising serious environmental compliance issues.
• Violation of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) – The project could impact critical habitats of endangered species, such as the hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), without proper consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
• Potential Violation of the Clean Water Act (CWA) – If the project lacks proper discharge permits, it could contribute to pollution of coastal waters and coral reef damage.
• Threat to Bosque Comunitario La Armonía – A 20-year community-led reforestation effort is at risk due to outdated permits still classifying it as an unpaved municipal road.
