Mexico City Prepares New Lighting for Historic Center Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Mexico City, January 22 – Mexico City’s Head of Government, Clara Brugada, announced yesterday, January 21st, a significant lighting renovation project for the city’s Historic Center. This initiative is a key part of broader urban improvements aimed at enhancing the capital’s infrastructure and aesthetics in preparation for the 2026 World Cup.
Extensive Renovation to Cover 134 Streets and 15 Historic Buildings
The project will span 57 kilometers of the Historic Center, encompassing 134 streets and seven plazas. Brugada emphasized the importance of protecting this “world heritage” site, which includes numerous emblematic squares, streets, and spaces. The renovation, currently 30 percent complete, is slated for full conclusion by mid-March.
In addition to street lighting, the plan includes artistic illumination for 15 historic buildings. Special care will be taken with the projectors to ensure the structural integrity and finishes of these monuments are not compromised, with the primary goal of enhancing their beauty, especially at night.
Raúl Basulto Luviano, Secretary of Public Works and Services, highlighted the close collaboration with the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) to ensure the preservation and enhancement of the properties. “These projectors allow for a multitude of colors, and care is taken to ensure they do not damage the structures,” explained the technical team during the conference. Among the intervened properties are the Museum of Mexico City, the Palace of the Marquis of Apartado, the Bank of London and Mexico, and several emblematic temples, totaling 73,000 square meters of facades enhanced with light, Basulto noted.
Renovation Extends Beyond the World Cup
Clara Brugada underscored that this renovation is an integral part of a comprehensive management plan for the Historic Center. This plan is structured around eight strategic axes, ranging from habitability to culture and public safety. “These works are not just for the World Cup; they are permanent transformations for the heart of Mexico City,” Brugada affirmed, calling on citizens and various social actors to join in building a more livable and secure space.
The Head of Government also previewed the upcoming presentation of a program for the reorganization of street vending and a reinforcement of security in the area, aligning with the improved lighting.
Key Points of Brugada’s Conference:
- 134 streets and seven plazas will be illuminated with LED technology and patrimonial design.
- Seven thousand new luminaires will be installed, and original posts will be rehabilitated.
- Fifteen historic buildings will receive artistic lighting, with an emphasis on conservation.
- The project has already reached 30 percent completion and will be ready before the World Cup.
- The intervention covers 73,000 square meters of patrimonial facades.
- The plan is integrated into a broader strategy of recovery, security, and citizen participation.
The monumental lighting of the Historic Center marks the beginning of a new era for one of the capital’s most emblematic spaces. Authorities invite the public to explore and enjoy the renovated streets and plazas, where light not only improves safety but also reveals the historical and cultural value of Mexico City.
Source: https://www.infobae.com/mexico/2026/01/22/cdmx-alista-nueva-iluminacion-para-el-centro-historico/
