January 17, 2025
A couple of months ago, we had the privilege of participating in a cycling path intervention near the University of Ciudad Juárez. The experience was so meaningful that we knew we had to do it again—not just for ourselves, but for the local community that rallied behind the cause. What began as an effort to address the growing tension between bicyclists and drivers evolved into something much deeper: a call to unity.
Our goal was simple yet profound: to shift the narrative from “cyclists versus drivers” to “all of us working together for our city.”
We wanted to remind everyone—whether they were behind handlebars or steering wheels—that we are all part of the same community, sharing the responsibility of creating a safer, more respectful, and more livable city.
On December 28, alongside the cycling collective Fixiebeat, we gathered at the Circuito Pronaf, a crucial route in Ciudad Juárez that connects cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists. Located near the Museo de Arte INBA, this path isn’t just a road; it’s a lifeline. It represents mobility, culture, and the heartbeat of a city that deserves better.
Armed with brushes, paint, and determination, we turned the cycling path green, boldly emphasizing “bike only” signs to foster respect and empathy. The excitement was contagious. Members of the collective brought their own tools, and we all worked side by side, taking turns to clean, paint, and bring the path back to life.
As we worked, something extraordinary happened. Families passing by stopped to ask about our initiative, their curiosity turning into admiration. Local media arrived to capture the effort, amplifying our message. Even a police officer joined in, ensuring our safety and expressing genuine interest in our cause. Their presence wasn’t just practical—it was symbolic. It showed that this wasn’t just about bikes or cars; it was about our shared future.
This path, used daily by Juárez residents who rely on bicycles to get to work, school, and home, became more than just a route. It became a symbol of what’s possible when a community comes together. By the end of the day, the green path wasn’t just brighter—it was a testament to our collective spirit, a small but significant step toward reclaiming our city as a place for everyone.
Through this project, we’re not just improving infrastructure; we’re cultivating hope. We’re fostering social cohesion and showing that even in a bustling, complex city like Ciudad Juárez, empathy and collaboration can flourish. Together, we can transform our streets into spaces of respect and our city into a beacon of unity.
This is more than a cycling path—it’s a bridge to a brighter future, one brushstroke, one conversation, and one shared goal at a time.
