Baja California Progress Report

Governor Ávila Olmeda highlights success in infrastructure and economy in Baja California. Challenges persist with crime, but efforts are ongoing to enhance security for citizens.

**Baja California Governor Outlines Achievements and Challenges in Third Government Report**

Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda of Baja California recently presented her Third Government Report in Tijuana, highlighting both the strides made and the challenges that remain for her administration. During her address, the governor announced advancements in infrastructure and economic development while acknowledging the ongoing issues of crime and poverty in the region.

Ávila Olmeda highlighted impressive investments in state infrastructure, reporting that 10,800 million pesos have been allocated to projects such as Nodo Alamar in Tijuana, Nodo Gallo and Nodo El Sauzal in Ensenada, and the Lázaro Cárdenas Distributor in Mexicali. She also mentioned new recreational developments, including the Esperanto Park in Tijuana and the Laguna México Park in Mexicali.

In terms of economic growth, Baja California has received 5,300 million dollars in foreign direct investment under her leadership. A significant highlight is Toyota Mexico’s commitment to investing 336 million dollars in its Tijuana facility. The governor boasted that Baja California leads the northern states in growth.

A notable achievement in healthcare was the opening of the East Zone Hospital in Tijuana on November 6, backed by resources for state-of-the-art equipment provided by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

Despite these advancements, Ávila Olmeda acknowledged that security remains a daunting challenge. Although there are reported decreases in home burglary, vehicle theft, and homicides, specific statistics were not provided. More than 4,000 security cameras are operational around the clock to enhance public safety.

On social welfare, the governor’s administration has allocated 10,885 million pesos to social spending, claiming the highest allocation in four administrations. A school nutrition program now covers 100% of elementary students in public schools. Additionally, the “Violeta Card” initiative has supported 100,000 women, addressing gender inequities.

Housing has also improved, with 26,000 homes built in the past three years, a significant increase from the initial 4,000. Poverty has decreased from 22.5% to 13.4%, and a new agreement with local mayors aims to enhance infrastructure and eliminate inequality in underserved regions.

Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda’s plan is ambitious: to make Baja California the first state in the country free of extreme poverty and inequality.

The event was attended by key figures, including her husband Carlos Torres Torres, the president of Congress, the president of the Judicial Power, local mayors, and federal representatives. The governor remarked positively on Tijuana’s new political climate under the new municipality leadership.

**Additional Update: Security Challenges in Baja California**

In related news, the issue of security continues to dominate discussions in Baja California as Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda addresses the province’s pressing challenges. Despite reports of crime reduction, pervasive issues such as drug trafficking and organized crime remain significant concerns for both residents and authorities. The state has been working closely with federal forces to bolster security measures, aiming to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. This has included increased investment in technology, personnel training, and coordinated efforts with neighboring regions to tackle cross-border crime effectively.

In the broader context, Mexico has been grappling with security challenges, and Baja California’s efforts are part of a national strategy to address these issues systematically. The governor’s commitment to addressing security and poverty continues to be a top priority, reflecting the urgent needs of the state’s populace and the expectation for transformative progress from the administration.