La Minerva, Guadalajara’s iconic roundabout, has undergone a massive renovation project ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the cost to the public treasury — 70 million pesos, or about US $4 million — has sparked controversy amongst tapatíos. 

Situated at the edge of the city nearly 100 years ago, the Minerva roundabout has grown to become part of the city’s identity. It is also the traditional epicenter of celebrations for Club Deportivo Guadalajara (Chivas), where thousands of fans gather to celebrate titles, championships and important victories of the team. 

A symbol at the center of the city

Mayor of Guadalajara Verónica Delgadillo said that, although La Minerva has already undergone renovations in the recent past, the current one places it at the center of the city, turning a representative symbol into something approachable for pedestrians. 

“This public space that we are handing over to our city and its people today is a space that will allow us to come together, not only when we want to celebrate something, as we have done for 70 years, but also invites us to come together on a permanent basis,” she said. 

Following five months of work causing traffic jams in the surrounding areas, the project’s renovation has encompassed over 24,000 square meters, transforming the roundabout into an accessible pedestrian plaza, with new hydraulic infrastructure, walkways, planters and improved lighting.

The work that has been done

Key aspects of the work included the reorganization of the five existing lanes, the rehabilitation and waterproofing of the fountain, new hydraulic systems with synchronized jets and new lighting. A perimeter walkway and interior walkways were also incorporated, allowing visitors to explore and enjoy the monument. 

The project also rehabilitated sidewalks, built new safe pedestrian crossings with illuminated signage, improved the traffic light system, replaced horizontal and vertical signage and enhanced the urban landscape with new street furniture, planters and seating areas.

The renovated work now allows pedestrian access to the parks surrounding the Arches of Guadalajara, and integrated free WiFi connectivity through the Jalisco Network, in addition to a new MiBici (MyBike) station.

Why budgetary costs are a cause for controversy

“La Minerva has restored the possibility for people to coexist with the roundabout itself, with this symbol, and for people to be able to walk around it, to approach and enjoy it, to take a picture and to coexist with La Minerva,” Jalisco’s Governor Pablo Lemus said. 

However, the cost overrun has been one of the main reasons for citizen criticism. 

Tapatíos have complained that the Minerva’s visual upgrade does not justify the investment, which was originally budgeted at 40 million pesos (US $2.2 million). Videos circulating on social media show users expressing disappointment and accusing politicians of misusing public funds.

“It looks horrible,” one user says. “Totally not worth it,” adding that these funds could’ve been directed to resolving other public needs in the transport sector.

2026 FIFA World Cup upgrade strategy

La Minerva’s upgrade is part of a broader renovation strategy to beautify the city of Guadalajara ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Improvements include works on roads, public transport, upgrades at the Historic Center and the opening of new hotels. 

Overall, the anticipated budget for all renovation works across the city is around 700 million pesos (US $40 million).

With reports from El Informador, Debate, Meganoticias and UDG TV

Gabriela Solis is a Mexican lawyer turned full-time writer. She was born and raised in Guadalajara and covers business, culture, lifestyle and travel for Mexico News Daily. You can follow her lifestyle blog Dunas y Palmeras.