‘Haciendo Barrio’: Transforming Communities with Innovative Project

The Citizens' Security and Justice Board of Quintana Roo is revitalizing local spaces through a project called “Haciendo barrio”. The initiative involves a range of activities tailored to the needs of each area in the state. James Tobin, the project's coordinator, stated that the program was designed to bring preventative measures directly to residents' doorsteps, and has seen positive results so far.

The project, which began three years ago in Cancún's Villas Otoch, has been successful in reclaiming and revitalizing community spaces. The Citizens' Board plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between local authorities and the community. They provide support for young people to engage in activities within their local environment and culture. This includes providing resources for music and recreational activities.

Tobin also mentioned that the project expanded to Playa del Carmen's Villas del Sol a year ago. The goal is to continue this expansion to Cozumel and Chetumal, reclaiming spaces for the community to take ownership and make use of. Activities under the "Haciendo barrio" initiative include freestyle art, creating murals on house facades, and park clean-ups. The importance of investing in these preventative actions is continually emphasized.

Verónica Meza, a representative from the Indicators and Community Projects Committee of the Citizens' Board, stated that the project has positively impacted over 2,000 people. She highlighted the transformation in Villas Otoch, where residents who previously didn't participate in community activities are now actively engaged. "Our work is centered on building social cohesion and supporting existing preventative programs. We've been instrumental in reclaiming spaces and acting as a mediator between neighbors and authorities, particularly in areas where there was initially a high level of distrust towards the authorities," Meza said.