New Government Initiatives in Antigua: Addressing Community Concerns
The newly formed government of Antigua recently hosted a significant meeting at the Town Hall with the Entrepreneurs Association of El Castillo (AECA) and a diverse array of community representatives. This collaborative roundtable brought together various neighborhood representatives, including those from Las Salinas del Carmen, taxi services, and speakers from different expat communities living in the area.
A Commitment to Safety
Mayor Juan Cabrera took the opportunity to share that the meeting was particularly productive, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to enhance safety in the municipality. One of the major topics discussed was a revamped security strategy aimed at combating crime and ensuring a safe environment for both residents and tourists. Cabrera explained the deployment of a new integrated security system, which includes local police, the Canarian police, and the Civil Guard. This approach includes rotating shifts that provide consistent surveillance every day, targeted particularly at tourist-heavy areas. “We want to eradicate the feeling of insecurity that has pervaded certain sections of our community,” asserted Cabrera.
Engaging with the Community
The local government, led by Cabrera, made a conscious effort to present itself before community representatives and expressed a genuine willingness to listen and respond to the pressing issues and requests from various neighborhoods, such as Caleta de Fuste, Costa Antigua, and Las Salinas. The aim is to improve public spaces through the establishment of new bus stops, lighting, cleanliness initiatives, and a comprehensive repaving plan. “In just a few days, we’ve already noticed positive changes, and we plan to increase these efforts in the coming months,” stated the mayor, acknowledging the vital role community involvement plays in maintaining cleanliness and managing waste.
Expanding Community Amenities
In exciting news for families, Cabrera unveiled plans for six new playgrounds across the municipality, three of which will be located in El Castillo. He detailed a large, attractive playground being built in Caleta de Fuste between Francisco Berriel and Juan Évora streets, another at the so-called Happy Center, and a third in the town square. These developments aim to respond directly to community requests for more recreational areas for children.
Infrastructure Upgrades
Additionally, the local government is focusing on infrastructural enhancements. New streetlights are slated for installation on Aiicán Street, throughout the Virgen de Antigua block, and along the central ring of Costa Antigua, including the main avenues and Berlina. These improvements aim to enhance safety and the overall ambiance of public spaces.
Commitment to Resurfacing Roads
Cabrera also reassured the residents about pushing forward plans for a resurfacing initiative in Caleta de Fuste, which will include parking areas around Montecastillo and adjacent streets. In Costa Antigua, paving plans include the main avenues—Central Avenue, Los Tarajales Avenue, and Berlina—ensuring a more pleasant driving experience and improving local infrastructure.
A Positive Reception from Local Business
Eduardo Van Der Been, president of AECA, was enthusiastic about the outcomes of this inaugural meeting. He described the discussions as an important step forward, noting a positive shift in the government’s approach. “We appreciate that the government is eager to work with us to find improvements,” he expressed. Van Der Been also highlighted the newfound optimism among entrepreneurs and merchants in El Castillo and Costa Antigua, who are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in their communities through collaborative efforts.
Continued Dialogue
Through these initiatives, the government of Antigua is demonstrating a strong commitment to engage with business leaders and community representatives continually. By addressing safety concerns, enhancing public amenities, and upgrading infrastructure, local officials aim to create a more vibrant, secure, and interconnected community.
