**Tourism Drops by 80% in Tijuana’s Historic Center Amid Security and Cleanliness Concerns**
The Historic Center of Tijuana is seeing a significant decline in tourist numbers, attributed largely to growing concerns over security and cleanliness. According to Guillermo Díaz Orozco, president of the local Merchants Association, the area has witnessed an 80% decrease in visitor arrivals. These issues, compounded with reports of violent incidents, have deterred many potential tourists, especially those who regularly crossed the border for weekend visits.
Díaz Orozco noted, “Violence in the area was once unheard of, but now incidents occur even in broad daylight.” He mentioned that while the tourist count is dwindling, those with family ties to Tijuana still visit, albeit infrequently compared to the past. He emphasized that restoring confidence and safety in the area would take more than just advertisements—it would require tangible improvements in safety measures and street cleanliness.
There were attempts by local businesses to secure the area, including the donation of bicycles for police patrols, but such measures were discontinued by the previous city administration. Business owners hope such initiatives will be reinstated by the city’s new administration.
Additionally, the problem of cleanliness is severe, with much of the area described as in disrepair. Overcrowding by street vendors and aggressive behavior from the homeless population have also contributed to the declining tourism. Díaz Orozco proposed that local municipal delegations should be granted autonomy in budget decisions, using property tax revenues for needs-specific interventions in their areas.
**Secondary Article: Tijuana Strives for Safety Improvements Following Concerns**
Despite ongoing challenges, Tijuana is taking steps to combat issues affecting its tourist appeal. The city announced plans to reintroduce increased policing in troubled areas, potentially revisiting past efforts to create safer environments.
Local officials are also eyeing infrastructure improvements, with funds allocated for roadworks in the Industrial Park of Otay and potential collaborations between private enterprises, municipal, and state governments. These efforts form part of a broader strategy to enhance the city’s overall image, aiming to restore its once-booming appeal to U.S. tourists seeking a vibrant cultural getaway just across the border.
Meanwhile, law enforcement continues monitoring illegal surveillance and other criminal activities, signaling tighter control efforts across Tijuana. The state plans to maintain scrutiny with control and confidence tests for over 10,000 agents, further underscoring the region’s commitment to restore public trust.
These initiatives echo a larger regional desire to make Tijuana a safer and cleaner destination, enhancing its cultural and historical offerings while ensuring a memorable experience for returning and new visitors.