Parque Lineal Enrique Martí Coll, once a popular spot for walkers and runners in San Juan, has been abandoned for several years due to various management and infrastructure issues. The park was originally under the control of the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA), but after years of neglect, its condition deteriorated, and it was closed to the public.

A key reason for its abandonment was the lack of proper maintenance and funding. However, in 2021, the ownership of the park was transferred to the Municipality of San Juan, which sparked hopes of reopening it. The transfer aimed to secure the necessary funds for renovation and to reconnect it with nearby recreational spaces like Parque Central, enhancing accessibility for local communities. Despite these efforts, the park remains closed, with plans for its reopening still under development. 

Parque Lineal Enrique Martí Coll is easily accessible from the Hato Rey Tren Urbano station, which is a major public transit hub in San Juan. The park, located near the urban heart of the city, can be reached by a short walk from the station, making it convenient for both residents and visitors who use the Tren Urbano for transportation.

Although Parque Lineal Enrique Martí Coll had already fallen into disrepair by the early 2010s, Hurricane Maria in 2017 significantly worsened its condition. The devastating storm caused widespread flooding and structural damage, with the park experiencing overgrown vegetation, destroyed pathways, and debris blocking access to several areas. These issues compounded the park’s pre-existing decline, delaying renovation efforts as attention and resources were diverted to more immediate recovery projects across Puerto Rico.

Today, Parque Lineal Enrique Martí Coll presents urban explorers with a scene of decay. Overgrown vegetation has taken over much of the park, and crumbling walkways and damaged exercise equipment remain as eerie reminders of its past life as a vibrant recreational space. Graffiti and discarded materials are common throughout the park, reflecting its abandonment. This mix of natural overgrowth and deteriorating infrastructure offers a unique and melancholic atmosphere for those interested in exploring forgotten urban spaces.

Despite its current state, there is still significant community interest in restoring the park. In 2021, ownership was transferred to the Municipality of San Juan, signaling a potential step toward renovation. Local leaders have expressed hopes of securing funding for the park’s revival and reconnecting it with nearby recreational areas like Parque Central. The park’s restoration would not only serve as a much-needed green space for the community but also symbolize a broader effort to revitalize the area.

Urban explorers should take caution when visiting Parque Lineal Enrique Martí Coll, as the park’s abandoned state poses several safety risks. Overgrown walkways, rusted structures, and crumbling infrastructure create potential hazards, and parts of the park may be structurally unsound. Since the park is officially closed, respecting any barriers or restricted areas is important. Wearing sturdy shoes and being mindful of one’s surroundings can help ensure a safer exploration experience.

Historically, Parque Lineal Enrique Martí Coll played an important role in San Juan’s public green spaces, offering a place for residents to exercise and enjoy nature. Its decline reflects broader challenges facing public spaces in Puerto Rico, including lack of funding and maintenance. For urban explorers, understanding the park’s past significance adds a layer of depth to the current experience, making the abandoned site both poignant and thought-provoking.

Photos and video captured on iPhone.