entorno y contexto completes Papaloapan River Linear Park
Once a neglected and fragmented space, the area between the Papaloapan River and the city limits of Tuxtepec, Oaxaca, has been transformed into a dynamic and inclusive public realm. The Papaloapan River Linear Park revitalization project by Mexican practice Entorno y Contexto reintegrates the river into the urban fabric, restoring its environmental and social significance. Before intervention, the site suffered from silted waters, informal settlements, and underutilized green spaces.
Crucial to the project is a network of pathways connecting open and covered structures that accommodate diverse activities, from running and cycling to theater performances. Four elevated 420-square-meter buildings link the new park to the urban grid, strategically designed to withstand seasonal flooding. Their material palette — brick, concrete, and dark red-painted steel — resonates with the industrial architectural language of Tuxtepec, fostering a sense of familiarity and belonging.
all images by Andrés Cedillo / ESPACIOS
the revitalization introduces new spaces for the community
While past efforts to activate the area introduced sporadic amenities, they lacked a cohesive vision. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach, Entorno y Contexto led an extensive research phase, conducting site mapping and direct community engagement to tailor the park’s program to local needs. The result is a multi-layered space harmonizing nature, sport, culture, and recreation, able to accommodate up to 10,000 users at a time.
For the design team, the Papaloapan River Linear Park’s functional diversity ensures inclusivity: runners benefit from a 1.3 kilometer permeable track, skateboarders and cyclists have dedicated zones, and families enjoy shaded playgrounds. Open-air theaters host cultural events, while commercial spaces within the buildings support a self-sustaining financial model. Landscape restoration was also integral, with 11,350 square meters of space reforested and a municipal nursery revitalized.
Entorno y Contexto’s concept builds on and extends the historical lineage of the park
introducing recreational, cultural, and sports facilities within the complex
the interventino promotes the restoration of areas of environmental and landscape value
four elevated 420-square-meter buildings link the new park to the urban grid
given Tuxtepec’s historic industrial heritage, steel and expansive lightweight roofs were chosen
crucial to the project is a network of pathways connecting open and covered structures
a material palette of brick, concrete, and steel
dark red-painted steel structures inject vitality
the multilayered space can accommodate 10,000 users at a time
for the design team, the Papaloapan River Linear Park’s functional diversity ensures inclusivity
landscape restoration was integral, with 11,350 square meters of space reforested and a municipal nursery revitalized
