Gathering diverse perspectives is essential for shaping the future of El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico. In July 2025, as part of the ongoing El Yunque National Forest Regional Destination Management Program, led by STAMP – Cornell University and Sinfranova in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), a series of in-person executive roundtables took place on July 22 and 23, 2025, in the municipalities of Río Grande, Canóvanas, and Ceiba.

These sessions gathered municipal officials and technical experts to discuss the current and future infrastructure needs along Puerto Rico’s PR-186 corridor. Participants explored topics such as service gaps, governance models, climate risk mitigation, tourism development, and ongoing projects, aiming to ensure that future investments are both sustainable and resilient.

The roundtables provided an important platform for exchanging knowledge, aligning local and regional priorities, and building a shared vision for the El Yunque region’s sustainable development. Outcomes from these discussions will inform the next stages of planning, guiding infrastructure solutions that enhance environmental conservation, community well-being, and economic opportunities.