### Que Pasa in Baja?
#### Ensenada-San Diego Ferry Schedule Announced
Azteca Ferries has finally unveiled the much-anticipated travel schedule for the new Ensenada to San Diego ferry service. While ticket prices remain undisclosed, the ferry journey, estimated to last between two and a half to three hours, has yet to be assigned specific days of operation. Morning ferries are scheduled to depart from Ensenada at 7:00 AM, arriving in San Diego by 9:30 AM, with an afternoon service returning by 5:30 PM. Conversely, departures from San Diego are set for 11:30 AM and 7:00 PM, with corresponding arrivals in Ensenada. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Despite the delay in releasing ticket costs, excitement is high as this new route promises to enhance cross-border connectivity.
#### Rosarito Real Estate Market Poised for a Comeback
Rosarito’s real estate market, which recently saw a 30% dip in sales, may experience a resurgence this September due to expected interest rate cuts in the U.S. Gustavo Torres Ramírez, President of the Rosarito Business Coordinating Council, is optimistic about a potential 15% rise in property investments. Southern California buyers, who make up the majority of Rosarito’s real estate market, may find it easier to refinance and invest in a second home south of the border. However, concerns over potential judicial reforms in Mexico are causing some investor uncertainty. If market conditions align, Rosarito could see a renewed surge in real estate development, something that hasn’t occurred since the COVID-19 pandemic.
#### Rosarito in Need of More Police Officers
Playas de Rosarito is in urgent need of over 300 additional police officers to meet the city’s security demands, according to Francisco Javier Arellano Ortíz, head of the local police department. Although the current administration has added 50 new officers, the numbers are still insufficient. Complicating matters, some officers are currently out of service due to questionable disability claims. Arellano Ortíz emphasized the importance of continued investment in security and coordination with federal and state authorities to combat crime and violence. Despite the challenges, violence in the area has significantly decreased over the past five years, with a notable reduction in homicides and bank robberies. However, the next administration must prioritize police funding to sustain these gains.
#### Governor Launches “Soy México” Campaign to Simplify Birth Registration
Governor Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda initiated the “Soy México” 2024 campaign on August 15th, aimed at simplifying birth registration for Mexican-American children and adults born in the U.S. This initiative, led by the General Secretariat of Government, began in Tijuana and will extend to other cities such as Mexicali, Tecate, Playas de Rosarito, and Ensenada. The campaign aims to remove bureaucratic hurdles and reduce costs for those seeking to obtain Mexican nationality, offering savings of up to 4,500 pesos per person. This effort aligns with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s vision of ensuring a dignified life for all Mexicans.
#### Tourism Committee Gears Up for 2025 Tianguis in Baja California
The 49th edition of the Tianguis Turístico, set for 2025, is preparing to be a major event in Baja California. With the Rosarito Baja Center as its main venue, this binational tourism expo will be the first of its kind in northern Mexico. Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda and Mexico’s Tourism Secretary, Miguel Torruco Marqués, anticipate an economic impact of 1.3 billion pesos, attracting 10,000 visitors, including tour operators from various regions. The event is scheduled for April 28 to May 1, 2025, with over 7,100 hotel rooms designated for attendees across Tijuana, Ensenada, Rosarito, and Tecate.
#### Sassi del Valle Project Expected to Start in December
The long-awaited Sassi del Valle project, first introduced in August 2023, is now anticipated to begin construction in December. Inspired by the success of Val’Quirico, a Tuscany-inspired development in Tlaxcala, Sassi del Valle will feature architecture reminiscent of Matera, Italy, blending elements of Baja California’s historical missions. Despite delays due to pending municipal permits, the project has already laid its foundation stone and aims to start construction by the end of the year.
#### Baja California’s Culinary Stars Shine in National Competition
Ten of Baja California’s top restaurants are finalists in the prestigious “Mérito Restaurantero 2024,” a national competition recognizing culinary excellence. State president of Canirac BC, Juan José Plascencia Huerta, praised the finalists for their entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and dedication. This accolade showcases Baja California’s vibrant culinary scene, with Tijuana being one of the top three Canirac delegations in the country.
#### Gulfstream Expands Operations in Mexicali with $370 Million Investment
Aerospace giant Gulfstream is set to expand its operations in Mexicali with a new $370 million investment, adding more than 540,000 square feet to its facilities. This expansion is expected to create 1,500 high-quality jobs, further establishing Mexicali as a critical player in the aerospace industry. Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda emphasized the importance of this expansion for Baja California’s economic development and job creation.
#### Ensenada Inaugurates Long-Awaited Sports Hall of Fame
After 30 years, Ensenada has inaugurated its own Sports Hall of Fame, thanks to a 3.3 million pesos investment by Energía Costa Azul. Named after the late professor Alfredo Marín Méndez, the facility will honor the city’s athletes, sports journalists, and promoters, featuring exhibits of uniforms, photos, and memorabilia. Located within the Centro Social, Cívico y Cultural Riviera, it will be open to the public starting next week.
#### New Ramps Coming to Playa Hermosa for Better Accessibility
Playa Hermosa in Ensenada is getting two new wooden ramps to ensure universal accessibility. The original plan included stone and concrete structures, but consultations with environmental experts led to the decision to use wooden ramps to minimize erosion. The first ramp, already completed, spans 90 meters, providing a comfortable slope for all visitors. A second ramp is planned for the northern end of Playa Hermosa.
#### Concrete Upgrades Coming to Valle de Guadalupe Roads
Valle de Guadalupe’s main roads are set to receive significant upgrades with new concrete paving. Funded by Fideicomiso Empresarial II and the Baja California government’s infrastructure department, Sidurt, the project will involve a 10 million pesos investment. The upgraded roads are aimed at enhancing visitor experience and supporting local tourism, especially with the upcoming Tianguis Turístico 2025.
### Secondary Article: Updates on Baja California Projects
#### Ensenada to San Diego Ferry Service Awaited by Locals
The introduction of the Ensenada to San Diego ferry has been met with anticipation by locals and tourists alike. The ferry’s schedule will allow for seamless travel between the two cities, offering opportunities for day trips and boosting local economies.
#### Rosarito Real Estate Market Shows Signs of Recovery
Despite uncertainties, Rosarito’s real estate market shows signs of recovery. With lower interest rates in the U.S., more Southern Californians are considering second homes in Rosarito, attracted by the region’s lower property prices compared to California.
For further insights and detailed updates on Baja California, visit TJGringo.com.