Cuenca news today, written for expats

The planned Gapal interchange, a significant two-level road infrastructure project in Cuenca, has encountered claims from bidders, delaying the final contract award. This development affects a key infrastructure improvement for the Azuay region.

The Azuay Provincial Prosecutor's Office has formally requested a hearing to file charges against suspended Cuenca Mayor Cristian Zamora for alleged illicit enrichment. This development follows an earlier search of his home and comes as Zamora announced a possible departure from the country for health reasons.

The Azuay Provincial Electoral Board has confirmed 86 mayoral candidacies across the province's 15 cantons for the 2027 sectional elections. In Cuenca, former mayors Marcelo Cabrera and Pedro Palacios are seeking to regain control of the city.

Cuenca recently hosted the Third Ordinary General Assembly and International Congress of MotoLatam, bringing together motorcycle sector associations from across Latin America.

Cuenca Cómo Vamos has signed promotion agreements with over 10 media outlets, including Diario El Mercurio, to broaden the dissemination of its reports on the canton's quality of life. This initiative, managed by the University of Azuay since 2024, aims to provide comprehensive data on living conditions.

Cuenca's tram service will be temporarily suspended from Saturday, September 19, to Sunday, September 20, 2026. This interruption is for essential cobblestone replacement work at key intersections, affecting travel plans for residents and visitors.