Mexico City, May 26 – In anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Mexico City government has initiated the operation of a network of intelligent and automated public restrooms. This project, which aims to improve hygiene and urban order in high-traffic areas, will charge 7 pesos per use.
Automated Hygiene and User Experience
Each user will have nine minutes per service. Upon completion, the system will automatically clean the toilet. After five uses, the entire module will undergo a complete sanitization process. The restrooms are equipped with soap, water, hand dryers, and automatic closing doors, ensuring a modern and hygienic experience for citizens and tourists alike.
Carlos Mackinley, General Director of Servicios Metropolitanos S.A. de C.V. (Servimet), announced that the first phase of the project involves the installation of 26 modules across various locations in the capital. Seven of these modules are already in place, with two commencing operations today on Avenida Chapultepec and Liverpool, and outside the Sevilla Metro station.
Strategic Locations for Public Convenience
The already installed modules are strategically located at Balderas, opposite the Biblioteca de México; in the vicinity of the Monument to the Revolution; in Sullivan, near the Jardín del Arte; and in the Zona Rosa. An additional four modules are scheduled for installation this week, though they will not yet be operational.
During the inauguration of the first restroom, accompanied by Head of Government Clara Brugada, Mackinley confirmed that the service would be free from May 26 to June 8 as part of a trial period. Subsequently, payments can be made using integrated mobility cards, credit or debit cards, with cash payment options to be introduced later.
Investment and Maintenance for Long-Term Success
The total investment for this initiative exceeds 26 million pesos, with each module costing approximately one million pesos. This project is partially financed by the Mixed Fund for Tourism Promotion and the Zona Rosa trust. Mackinley clarified that the objective is not profit generation but rather to provide a public service with a strong emphasis on continuous maintenance to prevent deterioration and vandalism, issues that have plagued similar programs in other cities.
To ensure security and proper functioning, coordination efforts are underway with the Ministry of Citizen Security, the C5 command center, and the Tourist Police to reinforce surveillance in these areas. Mackinley emphasized that providing accessible and clean public restrooms “guarantees public health, human dignity, and social inclusion,” particularly in a city where over 9 million inhabitants circulate daily, alongside millions of workers from other entities and approximately 15 million tourists annually.
Broader Impact and Future Plans
This initiative is a crucial step for Mexico City as it prepares to host a significant portion of the 2026 World Cup, ensuring that the city’s infrastructure meets international standards for cleanliness and public convenience. The implementation of these smart restrooms reflects a commitment to enhancing the urban experience for both residents and the influx of visitors expected for the global event.
The project is part of a larger effort by the CDMX government to modernize public services and infrastructure. The trial period will allow for fine-tuning the system and gathering user feedback before full implementation. This proactive approach aims to avoid the pitfalls encountered by previous public restroom initiatives, ensuring sustainability and user satisfaction.
The integration of digital payment options aligns with Mexico City’s broader strategy to promote cashless transactions and enhance convenience for users, including international visitors who may not carry local currency. The emphasis on security and maintenance is designed to protect the investment and ensure the long-term viability of the smart restroom network.
The government’s commitment to this project underscores the importance of public health and dignity as foundational elements of a world-class city. By addressing a fundamental need for clean and accessible public facilities, Mexico City is taking a significant step towards creating a more welcoming and functional urban environment for everyone.
