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Venezuela tackles decay in celebrated capital complex

The first residents of Parque Central, Caracas dreamed of moving into this futuristic "city within a town" that was vertical and futuristic. It was the goal of a new Venezuelan middle-class. After decades of decay, there is a renewed effort to restore this renowned complex.

Parque Central, built in stages in the heartland of the capital on 30 hectares (74 acre), was planned in 1969 and opened in phases over the next decade. The complex includes seven residential buildings with 20 floors and two office towers with 59 floors, which were the tallest in Latin America up until the early 2000s.

The project was left in a state if neglect after years of economic turmoil. Many facilities were falling apart. Site includes an abandoned hotel, church, over 1,000 commercial units and a recycling facility.

The East Tower is still not fully repaired following a 2004 fire. There are still damaged wooden ceilings, broken granite floors and other damage.

Arelys Bernal (69), a retired woman who has lived at the complex since its opening, said: "This was beautiful. This was a whole city here."

Unsanitary conditions have plagued the estimated 17,000 residents for years.

"Living in such conditions is not just a matter of aesthetics; it's also a health and hygiene issue," said Jose Luis Huici a 62 year old percussionist, who has been living there for 16years.

In April 2024, the authorities started revitalization works in response to residents' complaints about water leaks and poor lighting in abandoned basements.

Franklin Garcia, President of Corporacion Capital (the state entity that manages the project), said the work was a priority. Garcia said that the building is "an emblematic structure".

Workers have so far waterproofed all seven residential buildings and installed 10,000 new lights. They are also removing 2,5 tons of garbage per day. The efforts have begun to fix leaks in individual apartments. This includes a persistent issue with water in Huici's bath that was resolved last August.

Pablo Molina is an architect at Central University of Venezuela and teaches urban studies. He notes that Parque Central, built in a time of abundance of oil resources, was designed for an "emerging class".

He warns that the management of such mega-projects is complex and unstable in developing countries, making it impossible to maintain them over time.

Residents, however, will see the recent improvements as a fresh start.

Huici, a native of Caracas, said: "It is an icon for the city. It brings me great satisfaction." "I hope it continues like this." Reporting by Vivian Sequera, Johnny Carvajal and Camille Ayral. Writing by Camille Ayral. Editing by Kyrry Madry and Lincoln Feast.

(source: Reuters)