Business owners surrounding Rua da Felicidade are calling for changes to Wynn Macau’s old district revitalization plan, which supports the city government’s initiative to pedestrianize the area—one of the most iconic streets in Macau’s World Heritage-designated old town.
First announced in August last year, the plan, which is part of the gaming operator’s non-gaming commitment, aims to boost tourism by introducing non-gaming attractions cultural activities and upgrading street infrastructure.
However, despite these efforts, local businesses have raised concerns, claiming that the pedestrianization has caused a decline in sales and created inconvenience for their regular customers.
Rua da Felicidade and surrounding businesses have seen mixed results after a year of pedestrian-only access—which reserves the area for pedestrians from 11am to 1am every day. While government officials and Wynn Macau highlight increased foot traffic and tourism benefits, local shop owners argue that most visitors are not spending money in their establishments. Instead, they are simply visiting to take photos or enjoy the attractions without making purchases.
The petition, signed by many of the area’s business owners, calls for the immediate restoration of vehicle traffic to Rua da Felicidade, noting that the pedestrianization has driven away loyal local customers.
Some merchants claim that before the initiative, customers could easily drive to the storefront, place orders by phone, and pick up their goods with ease. Since the street closures, this convenience has disappeared, affecting sales and reducing the number of repeat customers.
Lawmaker Lam U Tou has taken up the cause, sending a formal request to Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng, urging the government to review the current pedestrian zone. According to Lam, business owners have reported a decrease in sales, particularly for those on surrounding streets like Travessa do Mastro and Travessa do Aterro Novo, which have also been affected by the trial pedestrianization. The petitioners suggest that while pedestrian zones may attract temporary visitors, they harm the steady flow of businesses that relied on vehicle access.
Challenges with the revitalization plan
While the government and Wynn Macau have pledged to revitalize the district with art installations, cultural shows, and street decorations, some business owners argue that these changes have backfired. Large art displays frequently obscure shop entrances or signage, discouraging customers from entering.
Additionally, merchants have expressed frustration with the increased rent prices in the area. They believe that the government’s promotion of the pedestrianization plan has contributed to landlords raising rents, forcing some smaller businesses to close.
Another point of contention is the delivery and logistics challenges caused by the street closures. With limited access for delivery trucks, some businesses have struggled to receive supplies, further complicating their operations.
Delivery drivers, as well as customers picking up larger orders, now face significant inconvenience due to the lack of parking and vehicle access, forcing them to walk longer distances from adjacent roads.
