### Informal Commerce in Tijuana’s Central Zone Disrupts Pedestrian Flow by Blocking Sidewalks
The informal commerce in Tijuana’s Central Zone has raised concerns due to its impact on pedestrian movement, particularly affecting senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. According to Julián Palombo Saucedo, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Tourist Services (Canaco) in Tijuana, these street vendors clutter the sidewalks, leaving limited space for pedestrians.
“The obstruction that these vendors cause is significant. They fully occupy the sidewalks, forcing pedestrians to navigate through very narrow paths,” Saucedo explained. The issue is most prevalent in the Historical Center, near the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe on Segunda Street and Niños Heroes.
This situation poses a higher risk for vulnerable groups, like senior citizens and people with disabilities, who are often compelled to step into the street, risking accidents with passing vehicles. “These businesses should be placed in areas that don’t endanger others and should keep pedestrian paths clear,” Saucedo emphasized.
The problem extends beyond simply clogging public walkways. Many of these informal vendors operate numerous businesses throughout the city, employing staff without any social benefits or medical insurance. “These are very profitable businesses with more than ten employees who lack social security, holiday pay, and medical coverage,” noted Saucedo.
Moreover, the prevalence of informal employment undermines the workers’ future financial stability. They do not contribute to funds like Infonavit or Afore, making it challenging for them to secure a pension for retirement. “Without contributions to these funds, these workers will have nothing to fall back on in their later years,” Saucedo warned.
The Canaco President called for regulation, suggesting that informal vendors be integrated into the formal economy where they can contribute taxes and offer their employees essential benefits.
—
### Secondary Update: Local Businesses and Authorities React to Informal Commerce Issues
In response to the rising concerns, businesses on Avenida Revolución (commonly known as “Revu”) have proposed placing trash containers in alleyways to manage waste generated by informal vendors. This initiative aims to maintain cleaner streets and improve overall pedestrian flow.
Simultaneously, local authorities are considering stricter regulations and designated zones for informal traders to limit their impact on high-traffic pedestrian areas. The central city’s congestion has reached a point where it disrupts not only pedestrian safety but also the aesthetic and functional appeal of historical and tourist areas.
Furthermore, discussions are ongoing about how best to support informal traders in transitioning to formal business operations. This initiative is hoped to create a balanced and sustainable urban environment where economic opportunities do not come at the expense of public welfare.
For continued updates and detailed guidelines on these developments, stay connected with TJGringo.com.