### Lack of Planning in Public Works Impacts La Paz Merchants
In La Paz, the ongoing street closures for repaving, despite being a primary demand of the local population, are causing significant issues for small and micro-business owners. This has been highlighted by business leaders who are increasingly concerned about the impact of poorly planned infrastructure projects.
Juan Carlos Esqueda Hampl, a representative of the Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce (Concanaco), pointed out that the sector is suffering from extended construction periods and widespread road closures. This situation is further complicated as many of the streets under construction are vital for easing traffic flow.
Esqueda Hampl emphasized that the current scenario has created substantial challenges for merchants, particularly during the low business season. The combination of the need to pay benefits, social security contributions, essential staff needs, and operational expenses, along with a decrease in revenue, has resulted in a considerable economic strain.
Additionally, another critical factor in the summer season is the increase in electricity bills, which further burdens these businesses.
“We see a lack of organization in the planning, which is a crucial part of this process; it’s not about the necessity but how it was planned. The commerce sector is suffering due to poor planning, making it difficult for them to maintain their workforce and keep their businesses running,” Esqueda Hampl noted.
There was a time when there was a channel of communication with state governments to involve local businesses in the planning of governmental projects and works, but this practice has vanished over the past three years.
Carolina Armenta Cervantes, the head of the Secretariat of Urban Planning, Infrastructure, Mobility, Environment, and Natural Resources (Sepuimm), confirmed that there are currently 20 streets closed for rehabilitation or repaving. She mentioned that this year, more than 1.125 billion pesos have been invested in infrastructure across the five municipalities of Baja California Sur, and road openings are expected soon.
While acknowledging that the planning of street constructions can cause “inconveniences,” she called for patience from the public, emphasizing that these projects provide long-term benefits for the entire population.
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### Additional Update on Public Works in La Paz and Surrounding Areas
The disruption caused by road construction in La Paz is a pressing issue, but it’s not the only municipality affected. According to recent reports, several other regions in Baja California Sur are experiencing similar challenges.
Local business leaders in other municipalities have echoed the frustrations expressed by their counterparts in La Paz, citing similar problems related to prolonged construction periods and significant disruptions to daily commerce and traffic. Several merchants in Los Cabos and Loreto have reported steep declines in foot traffic and sales due to road closures and construction.
In a related development, the Baja California Sur state government has announced new measures aimed at improving communication and coordination with local businesses. These measures are intended to ensure better planning and minimize the adverse effects of future public works projects on the local economy.
Moreover, residents have been vocal on social media, demanding greater transparency and accountability from local authorities. They argue for more detailed timelines and updates on ongoing works to better prepare for any disruptions. The state government has responded by promising more frequent updates and improved planning for upcoming infrastructure projects.
These developments highlight the critical need for efficient planning and communication between government bodies and local businesses to foster economic stability and growth amidst necessary infrastructure upgrades.
Stay tuned for more updates on these crucial issues affecting merchants and residents in Baja California Sur.
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